Sharon Stone has spoken out about harassment by a Sony executive

In a revealing new episode of the podcast "Let’s Talk Off Camera with Kelly Ripa," iconic actress Sharon Stone has opened up about an alleged incident of sexual harassment that she experienced in the early days of her career. The 65-year-old "Basic Instinct" star has been a vocal advocate for women's rights in the entertainment industry, often using her platform to shed light on the challenges and inequities faced by women in Hollywood.

During the candid conversation, Stone recounted her experiences as a young actress navigating an industry dominated by men who frequently prioritized her appearance over her talent. She shared an incident involving an unnamed Sony studio executive who, she alleges, exposed himself to her during what was supposed to be a professional meeting.

Stone's career, spanning over four decades, has been punctuated by her bold performances and her equally bold advocacy off-screen. In her 2021 autobiography, "The Beauty of Living Twice," she detailed some of her #MeToo experiences, contributing to the crucial conversation about sexual harassment in the entertainment industry.

Reflecting on the disturbing encounter, Stone said she had arrived at the meeting excited and dressed in her best outfit, eager to meet with the head of Sony. She recounted how the executive began by showering her with compliments, commenting on everything from her beauty to her intelligence.

According to Stone, the executive's behavior took a predatory turn when he abruptly exposed himself to her. Stone described how she reacted with nervous laughter, a response that often accompanies the shock and discomfort of such an unwanted and aggressive advance. She became hysterical, laughing and crying simultaneously, a reaction that left the executive at a loss. Eventually, he ceased his behavior, and Stone was escorted from the room by his assistant.

The distressing experience, as Stone emphasized, was not an isolated event but one of many "weird experiences" in her career, pointing to a broader culture of sexual misconduct in Hollywood that has long been whispered about but only recently publicly confronted.

The Independent, in pursuit of the story, reached out to Sony for comment regarding the allegations made by Stone. As of the publication of this story, Sony has not publicly responded.

Stone's disclosure comes amid a backdrop of the #MeToo movement, which has seen numerous women and men come forward with allegations of sexual harassment and assault, particularly within the entertainment industry. The movement has led to the downfall of several high-profile figures and has sparked a global conversation about power dynamics, consent, and the need for systemic change within industries where such abuses have been historically overlooked or covered up.

These revelations have not only ignited discussions but have also prompted legal and policy changes, with studios and production companies implementing stricter guidelines and conduct policies to protect actors and staff. Organizations like the Time's Up Foundation have emerged to advocate for a safe and equitable work environment for all women.

While the journey toward a harassment-free workplace in Hollywood and beyond is far from over, the courage of individuals like Sharon Stone in sharing their stories represents a critical step towards transparency, accountability, and ultimately, transformation.

As the industry grapples with these issues, audiences and insiders alike are called to reckon with the stark realities that have been part of Hollywood's less glamorous side. Stone's willingness to speak out not only challenges the status quo but also offers support and validation to others who have suffered in silence, encouraging them not to bear the burden of their experiences alone.

This incident is another stark reminder of the work that remains to be done to ensure that the entertainment industry, often seen as a beacon of creativity and glamor, can also be a place of safety, dignity, and respect for all who work within it. Stone's narrative is a powerful addition to the chorus of voices demanding change, echoing the sentiment that no job, role, or opportunity should come at the expense of one's personal boundaries and well-being.

As the conversation continues to evolve, Sharon Stone stands as both a witness to the industry's dark past and a beacon for a brighter, more equitable future. Her story is not just about the trauma of the past but also about the resilience and strength that comes with speaking out and fighting for a world where such experiences are not just rare but unthinkable.