Penélope Cruz has won an Oscar, starred in countless critically acclaimed films, and worked with the most celebrated directors in Hollywood. But none of that compares, she says, to the moment her children finally declared her cool. And she credits Bad Bunny for making it happen.
The Spanish actress appeared on the popular interview series Hot Ones and shared a charming family story involving the Puerto Rican music superstar. Cruz revealed that her children, Leo and Luna, whom she shares with husband Javier Bardem, first introduced her to Bad Bunny's music. She admitted that she initially tried to steer them away from some of the more mature lyrics.
"I was like, 'These lyrics are not for you,'" Cruz recalled with a laugh. She explained that she attempted to fight the influence for a while but eventually found herself listening to the artist non-stop on her own.
Danny Glover Opens Up About Alzheimer's Diagnosis: 'I Don't Feel Like It's the End of My Life'
What started as a parental concern quickly turned into a full-blown family obsession. Cruz shared that the family attended the opening night of Bad Bunny's residency in Puerto Rico. Since then, they have seen him perform five times on his current world tour.
The ultimate payoff came backstage when the singer invited Cruz to join him for the famous intro of his hit track "VOY A LLeVARTE PA PR." The moment was a hit with her children, who finally gave her the approval she had been seeking.
"And finally my kids came to me and said, 'Mom, finally you we can say you are cool,'" Cruz recounted with a smile. She jokingly thanked the artist, adding, "Thank you Benito! It took me all these years."
While Cruz has officially earned the title of "cool mom" thanks to her connection to the global reggaeton star, she remains a strict parent when it comes to technology. In previous interviews, she has been open about her decision to keep cell phones out of her children's hands.
Cruz has expressed serious concerns about the impact of social media on young people. She described the current digital landscape as "a cruel experiment on children, on teenagers." She has emphasized that it is easy for young minds to be manipulated, especially while their brains are still forming.
For Cruz, the balance between being a fun parent and a protective one is a constant work in progress. While she enjoys sharing musical experiences with her family, she is firm about maintaining boundaries regarding digital consumption.
As for Bad Bunny, his influence now extends beyond the charts and sold-out stadiums. He has secured a unique place in the Cruz-Bardem household, helping one of the most acclaimed actresses of her generation achieve the ultimate title: coolest mom in the house.