When you think of Lana Wood, you might picture a fearless tomboy who grew up to become a celebrated actress. In her own words, Lana recalls her childhood as a daredevil, always on the move and full of adventure. "I was all about climbing trees, roller-skating, and even throwing myself into a friend’s swimming pool—despite not knowing how to swim!" she laughs. "I guess you could say I was always pushing boundaries, even back then. Thankfully, my friends were always there to pull me out of the water."
A Role That Hits Close to Home
Fast forward to today, and Lana hasn't lost that adventurous spirit. In her latest film, Dog Boy, which premiered on September 8, she takes on a deeply personal role as a veteran actress struggling with the challenges of life. This character resonates deeply with Lana, who says, "It mirrors so much of my own journey. There's a scene where I express feeling alone, and that's something I've carried with me since childhood. Growing up, I often felt isolated, but now I see how those experiences have shaped who I am today." At 76 years old, Lana brings a raw authenticity to the screen that captivates audiences.
A Family Torn Between Stardom and Solitude
Born eight years after her legendary sister Natalie Wood, Lana often found herself on the sidelines as their mother, Maria Zacharenko, focused on Natalie's rise to fame. Maria, a Russian immigrant, was a powerhouse in the entertainment industry, but her energy rarely extended to her younger daughter. "Our mom was amazing in her own way," Lana reflects. "She was so involved in Natalie's career, but at home, she wasn't the same person. I spent a lot of my childhood reading books in the corner of Natalie's film sets. It was a quiet existence, but it suited me."
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Lana credits her father, Nicholas, for shaping her introverted side. "He was a bookworm who loved playing the balalaika," she shares. "He preferred solitude, and I think I inherited that from him. While Natalie was out shining in the spotlight, I was content with my own world."
A Sister's Influence and Legacy
Natalie's presence in their household was fleeting yet impactful. "She was always off working or getting ready for premieres," Lana explains. "Even when she was home, she was more of a celebrity than a sister. But that changed as we grew older. The age gap didn't matter as much, and we started bonding over our shared love of movies and TV shows." Lana adds, "Natalie was there for me during tough times. If I broke up with a boyfriend, she'd give me a hug and make everything better."
One pivotal moment came when Lana finally appreciated Natalie's talent. "I walked out of the theater after seeing West Side Story in 1961, and it hit me—she was truly special," Lana recalls. "That realization deepened my admiration for her."
Cherished Memories and Future Dreams
Despite their closeness, tragedy struck when Natalie passed away in 1981 at the age of 43. "I miss her laughter every day," Lana says, her voice tinged with emotion. "She had this incredible way of making people feel loved and cared for. Her children will never know that warmth, and it breaks my heart." Yet, Lana finds solace in continuing her own career. Her role in Dog Boy marks a triumphant return to the screen, and she's already planning her next project—a mystery novel. "Writing has always been a passion of mine," she shares. "I've already written pages and pages, and I can't wait to share it with the world."
