Penélope Cruz, the Spanish actress known for her timeless beauty, Academy Award-winning talent, and captivating screen presence, has long been one of Hollywood’s most intriguing stars. Beyond the red carpets and movie sets, Cruz lives a rich, multifaceted life. In interviews and features over the years, she’s revealed the things that ground her, inspire her, and help her stay balanced — the little (and not-so-little) essentials Penélope Cruz simply can’t live without.
1. Family Comes First
If there’s one constant in Cruz’s life, it’s her unwavering devotion to family. Married to fellow actor Javier Bardem and a mother of two, she has consistently emphasized that her children and husband are her top priority. She has stated in interviews that everything else — career, awards, public life — comes second. “My family is my center. They’re my life. Everything else revolves around that,” she once told Harper’s Bazaar.
2. Her Spanish Roots
Despite global fame, Cruz remains deeply connected to her Spanish heritage. She frequently returns to Madrid and speaks with pride about growing up in Alcobendas, a suburb of the city. Spanish cuisine, music, and culture are woven into her everyday life. In fact, she often brings her own olive oil and jamón ibérico when traveling — two flavors that, for her, taste like home.
3. Dance and Ballet
Before she was an actress, Penélope trained as a ballet dancer for nearly a decade at Spain’s National Conservatory. Though she no longer dances professionally, ballet remains close to her heart. She credits the discipline and physical control learned through dance as crucial to her success as an actress. When life gets chaotic, stretching or simple barre routines help her reconnect with her body and emotions.
4. Reading & Cinema
Cruz is an avid reader with a particular love for classic literature and poetry. She has spoken about her admiration for authors like Pablo Neruda and Gabriel García Márquez. Film also continues to be a source of personal nourishment — not just working in cinema, but watching it. She is known to rewatch favorites by Pedro Almodóvar, her longtime collaborator, as well as European cinema classics.
5. Skincare and Red Lipstick
As a longtime ambassador for Lancôme, Cruz is passionate about skincare. In her interviews, she has said that cleansing and moisturizing are non-negotiables. When it comes to makeup, a bold red lipstick is her signature — a classic, timeless choice that mirrors her blend of sophistication and fiery Spanish spirit.
6. Silence and Solitude
Cruz has mentioned that quiet time is essential to her well-being. Meditation, time away from the noise, and moments of solitude allow her to stay grounded and focused. "We all need space to think, to breathe," she told Vogue España. That inner calm is part of what gives her performances their quiet intensity.
7. Her Collaborators
It’s hard to talk about Cruz without mentioning her deep creative relationships. Pedro Almodóvar, in particular, has shaped her artistic identity. She refers to him as family and has often said she feels the most “herself” on his sets. These trusted artistic relationships are more than professional — they are emotional lifelines in the high-pressure world of film.
Penélope Cruz’s list of must-haves doesn’t include flashy possessions or luxury excess. Instead, it reflects her values: deep human connections, cultural identity, artistic integrity, and inner peace. These are the essentials that keep her balanced — and perhaps why she remains one of the most respected and beloved actresses of her generation.
