During her appearance on Watch What Happens Live with Andy Cohen on August 17, Sharon Stone discussed the fierce competition she has faced throughout her acting career. The actress candidly revealed intrusive thoughts she had while competing for movie roles, shedding light on the emotional toll of the entertainment industry. Stone’s remarks offered a rare glimpse into the pressures behind her pursuit of major film opportunities, emphasizing the harsh realities of Sharon Stone Competitive Acting Rivalry.
Unsuccessful Auditions and Desire for Key Roles
A fan in the audience asked Stone about notable roles she auditioned for but did not secure. Stone responded by recalling the 1999 film American Beauty, which starred Kevin Spacey and Annette Bening. She expressed strong disappointment at missing the part that ultimately went to Bening.
“I hope you have a lot of time. Oh, so many,”
Stone began.
“I really would’ve liked to be in that movie with Kevin Spacey, but Annette Bening got the part.”
She added,
“I wanted that movie. I really wanted that movie. But there were a lot of other movies that I wanted. Lots and lots and lots and lots and lots and lots and lots of them.”
This confession revealed the extent of Stone’s ambition and the many opportunities that she missed amid the challenges of the industry.
Dark Thoughts Toward Fellow Actresses During Casting Battles
Host Andy Cohen asked if there were specific actresses Sharon Stone frequently found herself competing against. Stone admitted that the feeling of rivalry had often been overwhelming and led to extreme envy.
“Oh, millions and millions and millions of times,”
she said.
“I got to the point where I thought, ‘I hope they die. I am never gonna work unless that actress dies. What is happening? I just cannot get a job. What is with it? Why do they like her and they don’t like me ever?’ It gets like that. You’re just like, ‘Come on. Pick me once.’”
Her honest admission reflects the intense frustration actors can experience when competing for limited roles, exposing the often unseen psychological challenges of the profession.

Significant Achievements Amidst Fierce Competition
Despite the rivalry and setbacks, Stone has earned critical acclaim and acclaim in her career, with major roles in iconic films like Basic Instinct and Casino. For her role in Casino, she won a Golden Globe Award, triumphing over a highly competitive group of actresses including Meryl Streep, Susan Sarandon, Emma Thompson, and Elisabeth Shue.
“It was a hell of a group. Elizabeth Shue had just done the Las Vegas movie [Leaving Las Vegas] with Nic Cage. I mean, come on,”
Stone recalled.
“Meryl — I mean, who beats Meryl? I did!”
This victory highlights Stone’s ability to rise above intense competition and establish herself as a respected talent in Hollywood despite the challenges.
Show Details and Viewing Information
Watch What Happens Live airs Sundays through Thursdays at 10 p.m. ET on Bravo, with new episodes available the following day on Peacock. Stone’s candid discussion added a rare and revealing moment to the popular talk show, offering viewers an unfiltered look at the personal struggles behind her public success.
