It has been 14 years since the world bid farewell to actress Janet Leigh, who left an indelible mark with her role in the iconic “Psycho” shower scene.

In a recently unearthed interview, Leigh sheds new light on her experience filming this chilling moment.

The renowned Alfred Hitchcock film, released in 1960, featured a stellar cast including Anthony Perkins, John Gavin, and Vera Miles.

The narrative follows a secretary who steals $40,000 from her employer’s client, leading to a fatal encounter.

Leigh portrays Marion Crane, who seeks refuge at a secluded motel managed by a man tormented by his mother’s influence.

Her character meets a gruesome fate as she is viciously stabbed in the shower.

Hitchcock disclosed that filming this scene spanned seven days with 70 camera setups for just 45 seconds of footage.

In a 1984 interview with Woman’s World, Leigh candidly shared how the shower scene altered her perspective on bathing.

She admitted to shunning showers entirely, opting for baths instead.

Even when constrained to take a shower, she ensured all entry points were secure, leaving the bathroom door ajar while showering vigilantly facing the entrance.

Reflecting on the aftermath of “Psycho,” Leigh recounted receiving unsettling letters from disturbed individuals fixated on the film.

Some fans expressed intentions to replicate Norman Bates’ actions on Marion Crane.

Despite the distressing correspondence, no harm befell Leigh, although the FBI intervened due to the severity of the threats.

Dispelling a long-standing rumor, Leigh clarified that she performed the scene herself, cloaked in moleskin to comply with censorship regulations of the time.

While a n^de model was utilized for a brief shot, Leigh maintained modesty throughout the filming process, concealing any explicit content.

Although Hitchcock never collaborated with Leigh again post-“Psycho,” she remained unfazed by his decision.

The director believed her character’s demise left an enduring impact, making her return implausible.

While some questioned Hitchcock’s choice, Leigh understood his rationale, acknowledging the unprecedented nature of Marion Crane’s fate in cinematic history.

Despite not clinching the Oscar for “Best Supporting Actress” in 1961, losing to Shirley Jones, Leigh’s portrayal in “Psycho” secured her a lasting legacy in the realm of classic cinema.