Men still assume I must be like the girl I played in 'Emmanuelle.' John Wayne was never accused of killing people during his free time, but I'm forever stuck with the image of 'Emmanuelle.' The truth is, I should have got an Oscar for that role because I'm nothing like that woman.

You're much better off as a love goddess to die around the age of 40.

Back then I didn't think a woman like that, or a relationship like that, could exist with complete freedom and no jealousy or possessiveness. I thought it sounded too good to be true and I was certainly convinced it wasn't the life for me!

The film was made in 1973. It was a golden time for people to experiment without risking, for example, AIDS. Today one has to be so much more careful and I don't think a character like that could exist now.

The only thing I was trying to portray was serenity. Also, innocence, vulnerability and elegance.

My mother was Protestant, and in her mind life was more about work and obligations and responsibilities.

I'm very glad to have something to be passionate about. I can't imagine a life without passion.