7 little-known facts about Parallel Mothers star Penélope Cruz

She's a global superstar, an outstanding actress, and everyone's crush; she's Penélope Cruz. The internationally renowned actress is currently starring in the Spanish drama Parallel Mothers, now showing in theatres near you. But before you go catch the movie, here are some lesser-known facts about the actress that'll make you admire her even more.

Films are known to change careers, but what about dietary choices? It certainly worked for Penélope Cruz, who turned vegetarian after filming the movie All the Pretty Horses. Maybe the horses were that pretty, huh?

2. There’s sometimes a lot to a name

Although Shakespeare did say 'what's in a name' as far as Cruz's name is concerned, there's a whole story. Apparently, the actress was given the name 'Penélope' after an identically-titled song by Spanish singer Joan Manuel Serrat. No wonder it sounds so musical.

3. A powerhouse of talent

Before she wowed the world with her acting prowess, Cruz was a dancer. Yes, you heard that right. The actress had trained in classical ballet for nine years at the National Conservatory in Spain. Honestly, is there anything she can't do?

4. A polyglot too

If you're known all over the world, it helps if you also speak multiple languages. Penélope Cruz gets that and is fluent in four tongues! She speaks Spanish, Italian, French, and English. You could say she walks the talk.

5. Lost in translation

Speaking of languages, the actress wasn't always a linguist. When she was roped in for her first English-language film in 1998, she had a tough time. The language barrier was so distressing for Cruz that she would not understand other actors' lines and would end up locking herself in the bathroom and crying.

6. And the Oscar goes to….

Winning hearts is one thing, but winning an Oscar; it's an honour. Breaking boundaries, Penélope was the first Spanish actress to ever win an Academy Award. Cruz won in the Best Supporting Actress category for the cult classic Vicky Cristina Barcelona *wipes happy tears*.

7. Family matters

In the same vein, Cruz is the second Spanish actor to win the Oscar, with Javier Bardem being the first. Yes, the same Javier Bardem, who is also married to Cruz. Bardem also won in the Best Supporting Actor category for the film No Country for Old Men (Netflix, Amazon Prime Video, Apple iTunes). What a power couple, right?

Now that you know Penélope Cruz so much better, don't waste time and show her some love by catching Parallel Mothers soon!