Additional Coverage:
- Bono pushes Hollywood star to get driving license after buying her a car for birthday (irishstar.com)
Spanish actress Penélope Cruz recently opened up about a surprising birthday gift from her longtime friend Bono, the lead singer of U2-a car. Despite the generous present, the 52-year-old revealed that she has yet to obtain a driver’s license, a fact that has added some unexpected pressure.
During an appearance on the interview show Hot Ones with host Sean Evans, Cruz shared that Bono, 66, surprised her with the vehicle in April. “My friend Bono gave me a car for my last birthday,” she said.
“He gave me a car, and I think that is like the ultimate push to do it.” The gift has prompted her to reconsider her longstanding fear of driving.
Cruz candidly explained the root of her anxiety, which dates back to a traumatic childhood incident when she witnessed her younger sister being struck by a car. The memory has left a lasting impact, and she admitted that the fear still grips her, even as a passenger.
“Every time I get in a car, I feel like, ‘OK, here we go. Are we going to make it or not?’”
she remarked. Even short trips with a professional driver evoke significant nervousness, making her wonder if she will be safe.
The actress also mentioned discovering a medical term for her fear-amaxophobia-a condition characterized by an intense and persistent fear of driving or traveling in a vehicle. A related condition, vehophobia, specifically involves a fear of driving and is often linked to traumatic events like traffic accidents.
Penélope has spoken openly about the impact of the accident involving her sister, recalling vivid details such as the red coat her sister was wearing. “For me, time stopped,” she reflected. “It’s a great trauma, because I saw her losing consciousness.”
The friendship between Cruz and Bono has endured for many years, with the pair frequently seen together at public events since they were first photographed in St. Tropez back in 2007. The actress often refers to him affectionately as “my friend Bono,” underscoring the close bond they share.
Now, with a car gifted by her friend, Cruz faces a new challenge-overcoming her fears and finally getting behind the wheel.