Sharon Stone Remembers Casting Director’s Bizarre Feedback When She Auditioned for “General Hospital”

Sharon Stone Reflects on Audition for Iconic Soap Role: A Missed Opportunity

Sharon Stone, the acclaimed actress known for her captivating performances, recently shared her experience auditioning for the role of Laura on the long-running soap opera “General Hospital.” During an appearance on “Jimmy Kimmel Live” on May 7, the 68-year-old actress recounted the memory of her audition at the tender age of 19, while she was navigating her early modelling career in New York.

The character of Laura has a storied history, originally portrayed by Stacey Baldwin from 1974 to 1976 before Genie Francis took over the role in 1977, transforming her into a beloved character within the show. Stone’s audition took place around the same time as Francis’s emergence as Laura, leading to a unique connection between their paths in the entertainment industry.

Stone recalled the uncertainty surrounding the character at the time of her audition. “General Hospital wasn’t quite sure what direction to take with Laura,” she explained. They were considering replacing the character altogether, which ultimately led to Stone being flown to Los Angeles for an audition. It was her first trip to the West Coast, adding a sense of excitement and nervousness to the experience.

At that point in her career, the actress had primarily appeared in commercials but had not yet ventured into significant television or film roles. During her audition, she encountered a casting director with a vintage style; described by Stone as an “old-school” type sporting a large beehive hairstyle and cat-eye glasses perched on her nose, which created a somewhat intimidating atmosphere.

Stone vividly remembered the audition dynamics; the casting director made her stand awkwardly while taking phone calls, which only compounded her nerves. When finally addressing Stone, the director’s comment left a lasting impression: “We’ll be sending you back.”

Disappointment soon turned to confusion when the casting director added, “You have no mystery.” Stone struggled to interpret the remark, leading to a somewhat awkward moment in which she was left contemplating its implications. Reflecting on this peculiar feedback, Stone remarked that it felt more like a “mind f—” tactic, suggesting the director was uncertain of how to finesse the audition process instead of providing constructive criticism.

Returning home to New York, Stone confided in her roommate about the experience. The roommate’s supportive words – “Baby, you’re Technicolor in a black and white world” – provided reassurance and perspective, contrasting the casting director’s rather perplexing evaluation. Kimmel, after hearing the story, commented on Stone’s innate mystery, suggesting the casting director had misjudged her entirely.

While Stone’s audition did not lead to a role on “General Hospital,” it was ultimately Genie Francis who assumed the character of Laura and achieved significant success, becoming a staple in soap opera lore. Francis enjoyed an iconic partnership with Anthony Geary’s character, Luke Spencer. The couple’s romantic journey culminated in a widely viewed wedding in 1981, which captivated approximately 30 million viewers.

Over the years, Francis has taken breaks from the show but has maintained a strong connection to it, returning to play Laura sporadically since 2015. Her legacy within “General Hospital” remains profound, establishing her as a beloved figure in the world of daytime television.

Meanwhile, Sharon Stone went on to carve out a successful career for herself, captivating audiences with her portrayal of enigmatic women in films. Her breakout role in “Basic Instinct” forever altered her career trajectory, establishing her as a leading actress known for her remarkable depth and complexity.

In the end, both actresses experienced unique trajectories that reflect their dedication to their craft, albeit in different ways. Stone’s early audition mishap serves as a reminder of the unpredictable nature of the entertainment industry, while Francis’s success demonstrates the potential for reinvention and endurance within the world of television. As Stone concluded, her career is a testament to the power of mystery and talent in the ever-evolving landscape of Hollywood.