Keira Knightley achieved fame in the early aughts after starring in blockbusters like Pirates of the Caribbean and period dramas such as Atonement, Pride & Prejudice and The Duchess. Now, in a career move we didn’t see coming, the English actress is releasing her first novel – and it’s a children’s book called I Love You Just the Same.
Knightley has both written and illustrated her debut novel, which is inspired by her experiences as a mum of two daughters. The story follows a girl as she navigates the changes that come when a new sibling arrives, taking her on a journey into a surreal and enchanting dreamscape.
According to the press release, the book will explore themes of separation anxiety, resilience, and the ability for the heart to expand as a family grows.
‘This is a hugely personal creative endeavour for me, and a project I’m passionate about,’ said Knightley. ‘I hope that people enjoy the book as much as I’ve loved creating it.’
I Love You Just the Same will be published as a hardback on 23 October 2025, and publisher Gallery Kids has dubbed it ‘a spellbinding gift book’. (That’s next year’s Christmas presents sorted for the kids.)
This holiday season, however, Keira Knightley in her acting capacity is treating us to a new spy thriller series titled Black Doves. Set against the backdrop of London at Christmas, the six-parter is dropping on Netflix on December 5 and follows Helen Webb, a dedicated wife, mother and undercover spy who faces exposure when her lover is murdered.
The series also stars Ben Whishaw as Helen’s ‘suave, Champagne-drinking’ assassin friend Sam Young, and Sarah Lancashire as her ‘enigmatic’ spymaster Reed.
Keira Knightley as Helen Webb in Black Doves
