Hollywood star and Israeli actor Gal Gadot turns 34 on Tuesday. The stunning and powerful beauty is known across the world for playing DC’s iconic superhero, Wonder Woman.

However, before finding worldwide acclaim as a female icon that many girls look up to, she first came into limelight for representing Israel at the 2004 Miss Universe pageant after winning Miss Israel at the age of 18. In the same year, actor Tanushree Dutta represented India and took a spot in the top 10.

Not just a beauty, Gal showed she is a lot more. At 20, she served the mandatory two years in the Israeli army.

After playing Gisele in three Fast & Furious movies, she auditioned for Wonder Woman without ever knowing what role she was auditioning for. She debuted as the superhero in 2016’s Batman v Superman: Dawn of Justice, leaving fans excited to see more. But it was with her solo movie that she launched not only herself but also took the entire DCEU to greater heights. Many critics and viewers were overwhelmed with the fresh winds of change that the film, directed by Patty Jenkins, brought to the world of movies. The woman was no longer an arm candy or a romantic interest for the hero. She was the one calling all the shots and showing the world that bravery can be found in anyone.

Gadot was seen again in Justice League last year. She was joined by Ben Affleck, Henry Cavill, Jason Momoa and Ezra Miller. Gal and Patty are currently shooting for a sequel to Wonder Woman, set in 1984. The film also marks the return of Chris Pine who had died in the first film.

Gadot is married to Israeli real estate developer Yaron Varsano since 2008. They have two daughters, born in November 2011 and in March 2017.

While playing Wonder Woman catapulted her into stardom, take a look at how it all began. Here are videos from almost 15 years ago when Gal contested in the Miss Israel and Miss Universe pageants:

Follow @htshowbiz for more

First Published: Apr 30, 2019 08:25 IST