I was at the end of the studio system so when I walked into movies, I had a magnificent suite in which I had a living room and a kitchen and a complete makeup room. I had everything just for me. With the independents, you're kind of roughing it, literally.

One lion thinks it's just hilarious to tackle us. He's very funny about it... and we always know when it will happen.

Everything that I've done in my life was to lead me to my work with the animals.

There were so many people who wanted me for their films.

Because of 'The Birds' and 'Marnie' I was, as the expression goes, hot in Hollywood and producers and directors wanted to hire me.

I had to have help getting up these stairs because I've been tackled by so many lions and tigers. Really. I'm like an old football player.

I kinda go for the Jane Eyre type of film. I am fascinated by classics.