Pernilla August is a Swedish actress and director, born on April 13, 1958, in Stockholm, Sweden. She gained international recognition for her role as Shmi Skywalker in the Star Wars prequel trilogy, specifically in "The Phantom Menace" and "Attack of the Clones." August has also appeared in numerous Swedish films and television series, showcasing her versatility as an actress. In addition to her acting career, Pernilla August has directed several films, including "The Last Sentence" and "A Serious Game." She has received multiple awards for her performances, highlighting her significant contributions to both Swedish and international cinema.