A candid conversation with Elle

Penélope Cruz posed for Elle magazine, appearing in elegant, minimalist images and speaking openly about her career, motherhood, and the beauty of growing older. In the interview, the Spanish actress reflected on her role in the film “Ferrari,” her relationship with age, and how raising children has changed her life.

Becoming the voice of Laura Ferrari

Cruz has portrayed real-life figures more than once. In the series “The Assassination of Gianni Versace: American Crime Story,” she played her close friend Donatella Versace. However, her role as Laura Ferrari was very different.

Unlike globally famous figures, Laura Ferrari was largely unknown to the public. Cruz felt a strong responsibility to represent her truthfully and give her a voice for the first time.

Strength misunderstood

While filming in Modena, Cruz visited the Ferrari factory and spoke with people who had known Laura personally. She recalled stories that revealed Laura’s strength and determination.

One story described how Laura slept beside racing tires the night before a race to prevent sabotage. Yet many still labeled her as difficult or unpredictable. Cruz noted that such labels have historically been used to diminish strong women.

A childhood trauma

In the interview, Cruz also shared why she is afraid of driving. As a child, she witnessed her sister being hit by a car.

She vividly remembers the moment and the shock that followed. The experience left a deep emotional mark and shaped her relationship with driving to this day.

Motherhood and choice

Cruz says she became a “mother” on screen long before becoming one in real life. Many of her roles involved motherhood, abandonment, or divorce.

She always knew she wanted children but chose to wait until she felt ready. For her, motherhood became the most important role of her life.

Protecting family privacy

Penélope Cruz and Javier Bardem keep their children, Luna and Leo, out of the public eye as much as possible. The actress believes children are especially vulnerable to public exposure.

She explains that her children do not use social media or smartphones, emphasizing how easily young people can be influenced.

On age and acceptance

Cruz has long been questioned about her age. She says the topic bothered her more in her twenties than it does now.

Turning 50 feels natural to her. She describes it as a reason to celebrate life, health, and experience, calling it something beautiful rather than something to fear.

For Penélope Cruz, aging is not a limitation — it is a celebration of life.