Why Penélope Cruz Was Destined to Play Donatella Versace

It was recently announced that Penélope Cruz will play Donatella Versace in the upcoming season of American Crime Story centered on the tragic death of Gianni Versace. Despite initial reports that Lady Gaga would play the late designer's beloved sister, this new casting announcement actually makes a lot of sense.

Why exactly? For over a decade now, Penélope has shown her love for the iconic Italian fashion brand at numerous red carpet appearances. She's worn Versace to the Academy Awards several times and was even wearing a gown from the brand to the Vanity Fair afterparty the year she won an award for Best Supporting Actress. So, while Lady Gaga has a closeness with Donatella, this decision is entirely random either.

Ahead, check out some of Penélope's many red carpet Versace looks.

She Wore This Grecian Gown to a Premiere in 2016
Getty | Carlos Alvarez

She Wore This Grecian Gown to a Premiere in 2016

This Fringe Gown Hugged Her Every Curve at a Premiere in 2016
Getty | Carlos Alvarez

This Fringe Gown Hugged Her Every Curve at a Premiere in 2016

She Opted For This Classic Gown at the Goya Awards in 2016
Getty | Carlos Alvarez

She Opted For This Classic Gown at the Goya Awards in 2016

She Wore This Slinky Number to This Year's BAFTA Awards
Getty | Chris Jackson

She Wore This Slinky Number to This Year's BAFTA Awards

She Even Wore Versace to the 2007 Academy Awards . . .
Getty | Frazer Harrison

She Even Wore Versace to the 2007 Academy Awards . . .

And to the 2009 Vanity Fair Afterparty the Same Year She Won!
Getty | Michael Buckner

And to the 2009 Vanity Fair Afterparty the Same Year She Won!