LOS ANGELES (AP): Elizabeth Taylor said Friday she is supporting Hillary Rodham Clinton's presidential campaign, calling the New York senator a smart, strong leader in a statement issued by her publicist.

It was a reprise role.

In January 2007 the Hollywood legend and activist donated $2,300 (euro1,488) to Clinton's presidential campaign, the legal limit for the primary, and called her a ``very savvy and a smart leader.''

Since that time, news reports have listed Taylor repeatedly as a Clinton supporter.

A statement from the actress on Friday, headlined ``Endorsement of Sen. Hillary Clinton,'' never mentioned the 2007 contribution or her earlier statements in support of Clinton's candidacy.

It urged voters in Indiana and North Carolina, which hold Tuesday primaries, to support her because Clinton is ``a brilliant teacher and powerful leader.''

Why the sequel?

Taylor publicist Dick Guttman said the actress ``felt moved to make a direct appeal'' to voters in next week's contests.