Penelope Cruz overcomes childhood trauma, gets driver's license at 52

Acclaimed Spanish actress Penelope Cruz is taking steps to obtain her driver's license at the age of 52, marking a significant personal victory over a deep-seated fear rooted in a childhood trauma. The actress shared her journey on a television program, revealing how a traumatic car accident she witnessed as a child profoundly impacted her.

Cruz explained that the incident, where a vehicle struck her then three-year-younger sister, Monica Cruz, left her with a lasting phobia of driving. Although her sister fully recovered from the accident, the memory deeply affected Cruz. This long-standing fear had prevented her from driving for many years.

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She gave me a car, and I think this was the biggest driving force for me to get my license.

The turning point came with a thoughtful gesture from her close friend, Bono, the lead singer of the band U2. For her birthday in April, Bono gifted Cruz a car, which she described as the biggest impetus for her to finally pursue her license. Despite this motivation, Cruz admits that she still experiences significant anxiety when driving, often questioning her ability to overcome the fear even during short 10- to 15-minute drives.

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Every time I get in the car, I think, 'Okay, we're starting. But will I be able to do it or not?'