Movies
The actress, who may well be in the running for an Academy Award on the strength of her portrayal of Elizabeth Bennet in Pride and Prejudice, was chosen for the honour by Variety.
Executive editor Stephen Gaydos said: "There's no brighter star in the world today than actress Keira Knightley, who's gone in a few short years from breakout success in Bend It Like Beckham to blockbuster hits like King Arthur, Pirates of the Caribbean and Love Actually.
"This year Knightley has demonstrated an impressive range, getting gritty in Domino, dark in The Jacket and solidifying her leading lady status in the critically-acclaimed Pride and Prejudice."
The ceremony takes place in London on November 30.
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