Penelope Cruz won the first Academy Award of the night at the Oscars last week, claiming Best Supporting Actress for her role as a tempestuous artist in Woody Allen's Spanish romance "Vicky Cristina Barcelona". The honor caps a big weekend for Cruz, who is fresh off her win Saturday for the same prize at the Spirit Awards, which pays tribute to independent films. Cruz is the first female Spanish actor to win an Oscar.

Born April 28, 1974, Cruz’s primary personality traits are ruled by the Chinese Zodiac elemental animal, the Wood Tiger. Let’s see what’s in the Chinese Astrology cards for this sexy Spanish star.

From the outset, this Earth Ox year may present some true challenges for the Tiger. The year of the Ox presents an overwhelming influence upon the untamed Tiger to maintain an uncharacteristically steady and well-disciplined pace. That is not to say that there won't be opportunities for great achievement. However, it would be more precise to say that this year will benefit the Tiger in the areas of experience, and laying a solid foundation for the long term. She will have to be resourceful.

It will be beneficial for Cruz to be cautious when it comes to career decisions in the Year of the Ox. This means she should think carefully before choosing new films. She should also be conscientious in her responsibilities and persistently impress her capabilities upon others, as this recognition will further her goals in the future. 

In collecting her Academy Award, Cruz follows in the footsteps of her boyfriend Javier Bardem, who became the first Spanish actor to win an Oscar last year. Actually, her romantic relationship may be one of the more favorable areas of her life during the Year of the Ox. She can look forward to joyful times with her loved one. Perhaps Cruz’s and Bardem’s shared Oscar honors will contribute to their happiness together this year.

Cruz will not want to neglect the other relationships in her life, however. She should stay mindful that those around her hold her in high regard. This esteem is valuable to her, so she will not want to jeopardize these relations by dismissing others’ opinions, or by being too stubborn. If she maintains a healthy awareness and concern for the thoughts and feelings of other important figures in her life, her path will remain smooth. 

For Cruz, and others born under the Wood Tiger sign, Chinese Astrology advises reliance on boldness and quick wit in the year of the Ox. Furthermore, this is not the time to disregard the views of those around you by being too independent or taking unnecessary risks.