In a recent podcast appearance on After We Wrap, actress Alex Owens-Sarno opened up about her memorable role as Cora, the young passenger in the third-class cabin of the iconic 1997 film Titanic.

 

Owens-Sarno, born in 1988, shared her experiences with host Gabriella Ortiz, recounting how she became a part of this Oscar-winning masterpiece.

 

Her reflections on the film and her journey in Hollywood provide a unique glimpse into the life of a child actress navigating the complexities of fame and the film industry.

 

Cora: The Role That Started It All

 

 

Cora was Owens-Sarno’s first acting role, achieved through a casting call for background actors.

 

The audition required dancing, which was fitting since Cora shares a dance scene with the film’s leading man, Jack, played by Leonardo DiCaprio.

 

In a lively party scene aboard the ship, Cora dances joyfully with Jack before Rose (Kate Winslet) captures his attention.

 

When Cora appears upset, Jack reassures her, saying, “You’re still the best girl in my eyes, Cora.”

 

This moment not only highlights the innocence of childhood but also sets the stage for the emotional weight the film carries.

 

A Scene That Never Made It

 

 

Owens-Sarno’s first scene with Leonardo involved her character sitting on his lap while he sketches her in a notebook.

 

Unfortunately, this touching moment was cut from the final version of the film.

 

Reflecting on that day, Owens-Sarno recalled, “When we got home, my mom asked, ‘Do you know who you were filming with?’

 

I replied, ‘Leo, my friend!’ That week, she showed me Gilbert Grape, and I thought, ‘Is he a real actor?’ He was my friend, and that was so exciting.”

 

This anecdote emphasizes the joy and wonder of working with such a renowned actor at a young age.

 

In a 2015 interview with BuzzFeed, Owens-Sarno revealed that she was gifted one of DiCaprio’s sketches, but it was unfortunately stolen before she could take it home.

 

This incident serves as a reminder of the fleeting nature of childhood memories and the bittersweet experiences that often accompany them.

 

The Emotional Impact of Cora’s Fate

 

 

Cora’s journey didn’t end with her dance.

 

Director James Cameron filmed a heart-wrenching scene showing Cora and her family’s final moments before the Titanic sank.

 

Owens-Sarno described this scene as the most impactful for her, igniting her passion for acting and solidifying her desire to pursue it as a lifelong career.

 

She performed the dangerous stunt multiple times, but many mothers on set found it too distressing.

 

“The mothers protested vehemently. During test screenings, many viewers said, ‘Not the girl. We can’t watch her die.

 

‘ They felt witnessing the girl’s death was unbearable,” Owens-Sarno explained.

 

This reaction underscores the emotional weight of the film and the protective instincts of parents when it comes to their children.

 

Although the scene didn’t make it into the film, Cameron later shared it on social media.

 

Just like during the test screenings, viewers expressed their sympathy for Cora’s fate, with many lamenting that they couldn’t see it in the final cut.

 

This online response reveals the lasting impact of Cora’s character and the emotional connection audiences have with the film.

 

The Aftermath of Titanic: Fame and Recognition

 

 

Owens-Sarno shared how Titanic propelled her into the spotlight.

 

After the film’s release, she was frequently recognized on the street, and her grandmother proudly showcased her to others.

 

However, the young actress admitted that during her pre-teen years, she became somewhat arrogant due to her association with DiCaprio.

 

Following the classic film, Owens-Sarno secured representation and auditioned for other projects, but scheduling conflicts hampered her progress.

 

The fleeting fame from Titanic quickly faded, prompting her to return to Los Angeles as a young adult in search of new opportunities.

 

Identifying herself as a fuller-figured woman, Owens-Sarno mentioned that she often found herself typecast in comedic roles.

 

Despite this, she remained steadfast in her love for acting.

 

“I know where my talent lies, and I can grow from there,” the actress affirmed, emphasizing her commitment to honing her craft.

 

Her determination to embrace her identity and pursue her passion is inspiring, especially in an industry that often imposes rigid standards on actors.

 

The Lessons Learned: Growth Through Adversity

 

 

Owens-Sarno’s journey has not been without its challenges.

 

The transition from child actress to adult performer can be fraught with difficulties, as many young stars struggle to find their footing in a demanding industry.

 

Owens-Sarno’s experiences serve as a testament to the resilience required to navigate these challenges.

 

Her story is a reminder that success in Hollywood is not just about talent; it also involves perseverance, adaptability, and a willingness to embrace change.

 

Conclusion: A Legacy Beyond the Screen

 

 

Alex Owens-Sarno’s journey from a young actress in Titanic to a passionate performer today showcases the enduring impact of her role as Cora.

 

While the heartbreaking cut scene remains a poignant memory, Owens-Sarno continues to embrace her love for acting, reminding us that every role, even those that never made it to the screen, contributes to an artist’s growth and legacy.

 

As fans of Titanic remember the film’s emotional depth, they can also appreciate the stories of the actors who brought those moments to life, including the unforgettable Cora.

 

Owens-Sarno’s journey reflects not just the story of a character but the broader narrative of resilience and passion in the face of adversity.

 

Her experiences serve as an inspiration to aspiring actors and remind us all of the power of storytelling in shaping our lives and careers.

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