Star of new Lassie movie formerly afraid of dogs

Ten-year-old actress Hester Odgers was thrilled to land a role in the new Lassie movie--until she realized there'd be dogs on the set. Turns out Hester was afraid of dogs.

Hester, who was chosen for the same role filled by Elizabeth Taylor in the original movie, overcame her fears quickly. After all, who can be afraid of Lassie?

"When I arrived to do the film the first thing I saw was this big collie. I was backing away but mum walked me towards the dog. She told me to stroke him and walk with him - I did it at arm's length.

"By the end of the day I could kneel down with him and after a few days I let him lick my hand."
Hester isn't focused on becoming a big movie star like Taylor--she'd prefer to grow up and become a zoo keeper. (Good for her--the world needs a few less actresses and a few more zoo keepers!)

Read more on ContactMusic.com.