Kristen Stewart remains deeply connected to Lady Diana’s spirit. [Image Source: YIMG]
Kristen Stewart disclosed in a recent interview with The Telegraph that her emotional connection to Lady Diana persists nearly five years after embodying the late princess in the 2021 film “Spencer.” The actress, whose performance earned her an Academy Award nomination for Best Actress, explained that the experience continues to affect her deeply.
Stewart expressed how the feelings remain vivid, stating the emotional bond has never diminished. She said,
“It still happens to me. I could cry for her at any moment,”
highlighting the ongoing impact Diana’s story has on her.
Memories of Diana Across Cities Hold a Powerful Grip
Reflecting on the places tied to Diana’s life and death, Stewart explained the profound memories that arise whenever she is in London or Paris. She remarked,
“I still can’t drive through this city — and it happens to me in Paris too — without thinking about her,”
referring to both cities’ significance, including the site of Diana’s fatal car accident on August 31, 1997. Stewart added,
“All the love that poured out of this woman…”
revealing the lasting emotional impact Diana’s generosity left on her.
Challenges in Preparing to Play an Iconic Role
The actress admitted to initial doubts about stepping into such a revered character’s shoes. She shared,
“I told Pablo (Larraín) that he was crazy and that he should probably hire someone else, but he absolutely refused,”
emphasizing her early uncertainty. She also pointed out visible differences between herself and Diana, like her green eyes contrasting with Diana’s renowned blue eyes.
Joking about these contrasts, Stewart recalled,
“I have green eyes, and she had those very famous blue eyes that matched her ring. So I asked him, ‘What if we make the engagement ring green instead?’”
alluding to the famous sapphire and diamond ring now worn by Kate Middleton.
Director Pablo Larraín reassured Stewart that the film aimed to reflect Diana’s spirit rather than focus on mimicry. Stewart noted,
Image of: Kristen Stewart
“He saw a certain parallel between our experiences. Something in my energy made sense to him,”
explaining why she was chosen for the role even though she did not physically resemble Diana exactly.
Reflecting on the Intense Media Scrutiny Diana Faced
Stewart discussed the relentless and harsh media attention that Diana endured during her life. She described this pressure by saying,
“They tore her apart piece by piece. Her rebellious qualities were so desperate, so young, so vulnerable,”
and acknowledged how such public scrutiny can be soul-draining. She added,
“That level of attention drains the soul. When we finished shooting ‘Spencer’, I felt a bit like an empty shell — and I think she felt that way too. That was the point.”
Stewart’s Personal Growth Through Channeling Diana’s Spirit
In a previous conversation with People in 2022, Stewart described Diana as possessing an unstoppable light and a remarkable ability to make others feel acknowledged, especially during the painful period portrayed in “Spencer,” which focuses on Diana’s marriage breakdown with Prince Charles.
Reflecting on this influence, Stewart concluded,
“Trying to even brush against that energy made me grow as a person,”
and added,
“Even if it was only in my imagination, convincing myself that I suddenly had that superpower she had — making people feel good.”
Enduring Significance of Diana’s Legacy in Stewart’s Life
Kristen Stewart’s ongoing emotional connection to Lady Diana underscores the profound impact that portraying such a complex figure can have on an actor’s psyche. The role demanded not just physical transformation but a deep engagement with Diana’s vulnerabilities and strengths, which continues to resonate with Stewart years after filming. This bond reveals how powerful storytelling can leave a lasting impression on both audiences and performers alike, ensuring Diana’s legacy remains vivid through new generations.
