Sharon Stone: A Journey of Resilience and Reinvention
At 66, Sharon Stone reflects on a life marked by extraordinary challenges and remarkable resilience. During an interview for the BBC World Service 100 Women season, Stone candidly discusses her most profound moments of survival, including a life-threatening brain haemorrhage 23 years ago that left her with only a 1% chance of survival.
When asked what she would tell her younger self, Stone becomes emotional, repeating, “You’re going to make it.” She recalls the harrowing experience of being hospitalized, having to relearn basic skills like walking and talking, and reading in People magazine that her survival was uncertain. This traumatic event fundamentally changed her, altering even her food preferences and allergies.
Stone’s career trajectory is a testament to her resilience. Propelled to stardom by Basic Instinct in 1992, she was initially typecast as a sex symbol. However, she strategically used her fame for philanthropic causes, particularly HIV and AIDS research. Her work in this area earned her the 2013 Nobel Peace Summit Award and recognition as Global Citizen of the Year by the United Nations Correspondents Association.
Beyond acting, Stone has diversified her talents. After her Hollywood success, which included a Golden Globe and an Oscar nomination for Casino, she has become a passionate painter. Her artistic journey began during the pandemic, and she now creates large, bold, impressionistic artworks in her Los Angeles studio.
Stone has also been politically outspoken, supporting progressive causes while maintaining respect for democratic processes. She’s critical of how women were previously portrayed in films, noting that women were primarily “playing the fantasy of men.” Now, she believes the industry is evolving to represent more authentic female experiences.
Her philosophy on resilience is profound and practical: “We can choose to bitch and moan or we can choose joy… Stay present. You fell down. Get up.” This approach has guided her through personal challenges, including a custody battle with her ex-husband and navigating Hollywood’s complex landscape.
Interestingly, Stone has even embraced modern dating, using dating apps and humorously sharing her experiences, including being temporarily blocked from Bumble when users thought her profile was fake.
When discussing resilience, Stone emphasizes the importance of perspective and hope. Her message is clear: challenges are temporary, and survival is possible. Her journey from a critically ill patient to a multi-talented artist, humanitarian, and activist demonstrates the power of perseverance and positive choice.
As the interview concludes, Stone’s warmth and vulnerability shine through. She hugs the interviewer, expressing gratitude for a question that prompted deep reflection, embodying her philosophy of embracing each moment with grace and joy.
