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Gal Gadot reveals life-threatening health scare during pregnancy: 'I'm very happy to be alive'

Gadot has shown that it’s possible to emerge from even the darkest moments with a renewed sense of purpose and gratitude

Gal Gadot

Gal Gadot’s story is one of resilience, determination, and unwavering compassion

Getty images

Gal Gadot, the Israeli actress who captured the world’s heart as Wonder Woman, is no stranger to embodying strength and resilience. But beyond the glitz and glamour of Hollywood, Gadot’s life has been marked by personal challenges and triumphs that have shaped her into the inspiring figure she is today. From her time serving in the Israeli Defense Forces to balancing motherhood with a booming career, Gadot’s story is one of perseverance, gratitude, and an unwavering commitment to her values.

From soldier to superhero

Long before she donned the iconic Wonder Woman armor, Gadot’s journey began in Rosh HaAyin, Israel. At 18, she was crowned Miss Israel, but her path took a turn when she served two years in the Israeli Defense Forces as a combat fitness instructor. This experience, she has often said, instilled in her a sense of discipline and resilience that would later define her career.


“The army wasn’t just about physical strength; it was about mental toughness,” Gadot shared in a 2020 interview. “It taught me how to push through challenges and never give up, no matter how difficult things get.”

After her military service, Gadot pursued a career in law but soon found herself drawn to acting. Her breakthrough came in 2009 when she was cast as Gisele Yashar in the Fast & Furious franchise. However, it was her portrayal of Diana Prince, aka Wonder Woman, in the DC Extended Universe that catapulted her to global stardom. The role resonated deeply with audiences, not just because of Gadot’s physical prowess but because of the compassion and strength she brought to the character.

Balancing stardom and motherhood

While Gadot’s career has been on a meteoric rise, her most cherished role remains that of a mother. She and her husband, real estate developer Jaron Varsano, are parents to three daughters: Alma (born in 2011), Maya (born in 2017), and Daniella (born in 2021). Gadot has often spoken about the challenges of balancing her demanding career with motherhood, describing it as a “beautiful juggling act.”

“Being a mother is my greatest joy, but it’s also my biggest responsibility,” Gadot said in a 2022 interview. “I want my girls to grow up knowing that they can achieve anything they set their minds to, but also that family always comes first.”

Gadot’s commitment to her family is evident in the way she prioritizes her time. Despite her busy schedule, she makes it a point to be present for her children, whether it’s attending school events or simply spending quality time at home. “It’s not about being perfect; it’s about being there,” she said. “Those little moments—reading a bedtime story, cooking together, or just laughing—those are the things that matter most.”

A voice for women’s empowerment

Gal Gadot donned the iconic Wonder Woman armorGetty images

Gadot’s portrayal of Wonder Woman has made her a symbol of female empowerment, but her advocacy extends far beyond the screen. She has been a vocal supporter of gender equality, using her platform to raise awareness about issues affecting women worldwide. In 2020, she produced and starred in Wonder Woman 1984, a film that celebrated the strength and resilience of women.

“Wonder Woman is more than just a character to me,” Gadot explained. “She represents the power of compassion, courage, and the belief that we can make the world a better place. I feel a responsibility to carry that message forward in my own life.”

Gadot has also been involved in various philanthropic efforts, including supporting organizations that provide aid to women and children in crisis. “I’ve been fortunate to have so many opportunities in my life, and I believe it’s important to use that privilege to help others,” she said.

Overcoming challenges with grace

Despite her success, Gadot’s journey has not been without its challenges. In a candid Instagram post, she opened up about the difficulties of navigating the pressures of fame and the constant scrutiny that comes with it. “There are days when it feels like the weight of the world is on your shoulders,” she wrote. “But I’ve learned to lean on the people I love and to remind myself of what truly matters.”

Gadot’s legacy serves as a reminder that we all have the power to be heroes in our own livesInstagram/ gal_gadot

Gadot’s ability to remain grounded and authentic in the face of adversity is a testament to her strength of character. She credits her family and close friends for keeping her grounded. “At the end of the day, it’s not about the accolades or the fame,” she said. “It’s about the love and connections we share with the people around us.”

A legacy of strength and compassion

Gal Gadot’s story is one of resilience, determination, and unwavering compassion. From her humble beginnings in Israel to becoming a global icon, she has proven that true strength lies not in physical power but in the ability to rise above challenges with grace and humility.

As she continues to inspire millions around the world, Gadot’s legacy serves as a reminder that we all have the power to be heroes in our own lives. Whether it’s through acts of kindness, standing up for what we believe in, or simply being there for the people we love, we can all make a difference.

In the words of Wonder Woman herself, “It’s not about what you deserve; it’s about what you believe. And I believe in love.”

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How Southeast Asian storytelling became one of Netflix’s fastest-growing global pillars

Inside Netflix’s 50% surge: the regional creators and stories driving Southeast Asia’s global rise

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How Southeast Asian storytelling became one of Netflix’s fastest-growing global pillars

Highlights:

  • Netflix says global viewing of Southeast Asian titles rose almost 50% between 2023 and 2024.
  • Premium VOD revenue in the region reached £1.44 billion (₹15,300 crore) last year, with 53.6 million subscriptions.
  • Netflix holds more than half of the region’s total viewing and remains its biggest investor in originals.
  • New rivals, including Max, Viu and Vidio, are forcing sharper competition.
  • Local jobs, training and tourism are increasing as productions expand across the region.

Last year, something shifted in what the world watched. Global viewership of Southeast Asian content on Netflix grew by nearly 50%, and this isn't just a corporate milestone; it’s a signal. Stories from Jakarta, Bangkok, and Manila are no longer regional curiosities. They are now part of the global mainstream.

The numbers tell a clear story. Over 100 Southeast Asian titles have now entered Netflix’s Global Top 10 lists. More than 40 of those broke through in 2024 alone. This surge is part of a bigger boom in the region’s own backyard. The total premium video-on-demand market in Southeast Asia saw viewership hit 440 billion minutes in 2024, with revenues up 14% to £1.44 billion (₹15,300 crore). Netflix commands over half of that viewership and 42% of the revenue. They have a clear lead, but the entire market is rising.

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