Quantum of Solace’s Olga Kurylenko on her poor upbringing

Quantum of Solace star Olga Kurylenko has revealed her impoverished upbringing has taught her not to be extravagant with money.

The former model grew up in Ukraine but after being spotted by a modelling scout while on holiday in Moscow, she graced the covers of Vogue and Elle magazine, before making the transition into films.

She explained recently that despite a steady acting career, she’s not wasteful with her money: “[I remember once] I refused to go to school because my shoes had no soles.

“My mother insisted that I go, so I took a needle and thread and stitched the shoes so that my toes wouldn’t poke out at the end. By the time I got to school the stitches had come out and my feet were on show.

“It was very upsetting. But those experiences taught me a lot about money. It’s not important in my life. I don’t really think about it at all.

“Because I grew up with nothing I have no extravagances. I don’t want hundreds of shoes - just a few pairs that don’t need stitching up.”