United Kingdom, Nov. 1 -- Keira Knightley feels "fortunate" to have survived her early experiences of fame.

The 40-year-old actress has enjoyed a hugely successful career in the film industry, having starred in Bend It Like Beckham back in 2002 - but Keira acknowledges that her life and her career could've easily gone in another direction.

Speaking to The Independent, Keira explained: "The adult me is very aware that people can go through very difficult periods in their life, and they do not come out of it with a very successful career and a very healthy bank balance. I feel incredibly fortunate."

Keira acknowledged that she's now achieved a level of respect from the public that didn't exist during her teenage years.

The brunette beau...