Sharon Stone, the iconic actress known for her roles in movies like “Basic Instinct” and “Casino,” recently got candid about the hefty price tag that comes with being rich and famous. In an interview with InStyle, Stone, whose reported net worth stands at a staggering $40 million, didn’t shy away from expressing her frustrations about the financial burdens of celebrity life.
The 65-year-old star lamented about the common scenario of footing the bill for lavish dinners, where the checks often soar to $3,000 or more. “You go out to dinner, and there’s 15 people at the table, and who gets the check? You get the $3,000 dinner check every single time,” Stone disclosed. It seems that the glitz and glam of Hollywood come with a hefty price tag.
But Stone’s gripes about the expenses of fame don’t stop there. The actress revealed that maintaining her lavish lifestyle, including her newly purchased home and the costs associated with her security staff, publicists, makeup artists, and managers, all contribute to the financial strain of stardom. It’s no wonder she feels the weight of her celebrity status on her bank account.
However, despite her complaints about the financial toll of fame, Stone has proven herself to be anything but stingy, especially when it comes to nurturing talent in Hollywood. In her 2021 memoir, “The Beauty of Living Twice,” Stone disclosed an extraordinary act of generosity towards none other than Leonardo DiCaprio.
Recalling her decision to cast DiCaprio in the 1995 film “The Quick and the Dead,” Stone shared that she paid a substantial portion of her own paycheck to secure DiCaprio’s involvement. At the time, DiCaprio was on the brink of stardom following his breakout role in “What’s Eating Gilbert Grape.” Stone wanted to ensure the film’s success by surrounding herself with the best talent possible.
Despite facing skepticism from producers, Stone remained resolute in her decision, explaining, “I get this isn’t man-think. But concentric thinking is how women think.” Ultimately, Stone ended up paying DiCaprio $1 million, a third of her own paycheck, to portray her on-screen son in the Western.
Reflecting on Stone’s kindness, DiCaprio expressed his gratitude, acknowledging her role in kickstarting his career. “She’s been a huge champion of cinema and giving other actors opportunities, so I’m very thankful,” DiCaprio remarked in a November 2023 interview with E! News. He admitted that he couldn’t thank her enough for her generosity and support throughout his career.
So, while being rich and famous may come with its fair share of financial burdens, Stone’s story serves as a reminder of the generosity and compassion that can thrive in the heart of Hollywood’s elite.
