Sophia Loren accepted a role in the upcoming Cars sequel as a tribute to movie giant Walt Disney, who helped the actress conquer her nerves early on in her career.
The veteran star voices a part in new animated movie Cars 2, and reveals she took on the role in the Disney/Pixar film to honor the late company boss, who died in 1966, for helping her when she was a young woman.
She tells New York Post gossip column Page Six, "I was in Los Angeles many years ago to receive an award.
"I was terribly nervous, and very young, and I ran into Mr. Disney. It was an unforgettable evening.
"We talked and he helped me with my jitters... This is my way of honoring Disney."
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