In a candid revelation, renowned actress Sharon Stone bares her soul as she discusses the hardships she faced in Hollywood after suffering a stroke in 2001. Despite her remarkable talent and fame, Stone claims that the industry turned its back on her during her time of need.
Speaking as the host of The Hollywood Reporter’s empowering “Raising Our Voices” luncheon, Stone fearlessly acknowledges that she shares a common struggle with others in the room – a struggle for diversity and inclusivity.
“In 2001, I endured a life-altering stroke, with a slim 1% chance of survival. For nine agonizing days, my brain bled. It took me seven long years to recover, and ever since, I have been on the fringes of the industry. My opportunities dwindled, and my once thriving career faded away,” Stone reveals with unwavering honesty.
“I was once a beloved and prominent movie star, shattering countless glass ceilings with my unwavering determination,” she reflects upon her remarkable journey, highlighted by iconic roles in ’90s classics such as “Basic Instinct” and “Casino.”
Now, Stone has redirected her energy towards activism, emphasizing the multi-faceted nature of diversity.
“Diversity encompasses a myriad of dimensions – it can be a personal struggle, the color of one’s skin, or the courage to stand up for oneself. As diverse individuals, we must demand our rightful place in this industry. Today, we gather to amplify our voices and demand the recognition we deserve,” Stone passionately asserts, rallying the audience. “I yearned to be heard, but when my own voice faltered, I resolved to amplify yours.”
For over two decades, Stone has dedicated herself to meaningful work with influential organizations like the World Health Organization and the United Nations, striving to ensure that diverse voices are not silenced amidst societal resistance to progress.
“This democratic experiment holds immeasurable value. It truly does. The forceful push towards a controlled society, irrespective of its label, is merely an experiment. It does not signify the inevitability of such a reality. It tests our resilience and willingness to comply. Will we surrender to an all-encompassing government or a stifling studio system? What boundaries will we accept? Or will we rise up and make our voices resound? I implore you to raise your voices,” Stone concludes, leaving the audience inspired and empowered.
At 65 years old, Stone has never been one to shy away from voicing her grievances with the industry. During her impassioned speech, she highlights that her pursuit of fair treatment has often come at a cost.
“I want to share the pain I’ve endured. It was painful to fight for fair compensation, to clash with studio heads, and to set personal boundaries. It was excruciating to insist on having my voice heard, to refuse to sign unread contracts in a makeup trailer,” she confides.
These principled stands have undoubtedly impacted her career, but Stone remains steadfast in her commitment to challenging industry norms and fostering equality in an industry marred by inequity.
In the face of adversity, Sharon Stone stands tall as a symbol of resilience, inspiring others to embrace their unique journeys and demand the recognition they deserve.
