In a candid new interview, Kristen Stewart has revealed the profound emotional effects of portraying Princess Diana in the 2021 film *Spencer*. Three years after stepping into the late royal’s shoes, Stewart admits she remains deeply connected to Diana’s spirit, often feeling overwhelmed by her legacy.
An Unshakeable Connection
Stewart’s portrayal of Diana, which earned her an Academy Award nomination, delves into the complexities of the princess’s life, particularly her struggles with the royal family, an eating disorder, and her tumultuous marriage to Prince Charles. The actress has described feeling “haunted” by Diana, stating, “I can cry about her at any moment.” She elaborated on how even mundane activities, such as driving through London or Paris, evoke memories of the princess and the love she inspired.
This emotional connection has made it difficult for Stewart to detach from the role. “I still am [haunted]. I can’t drive around London… without thinking about her,” she shared with *The Telegraph*. Stewart’s experience mirrors the emotional turmoil that Diana faced, illustrating how art can often blur the lines between reality and performance.
The Physical Transformation
In her portrayal, Stewart donned costumes that she described as “part of the armour,” enabling her to embody Diana’s essence. The film is set during a particularly bleak Christmas in 1991 at Sandringham, and Stewart felt that the attire allowed her to step into Diana’s “physical space” while navigating the restrictive environment of the royal residence. “It was like creating images of her in this prison of a castle,” she noted, highlighting the sense of confinement both women experienced under the scrutiny of the public eye.
Stewart’s own experiences with media scrutiny, stemming from her time in the *Twilight* franchise, provided her with insights into Diana’s struggles. “It does kind of soul suck,” she admitted, connecting with Diana’s rebelliousness and vulnerability.
A Spiritual Encounter
While filming *Spencer*, Stewart described experiencing “spooky, spiritual feelings,” suggesting a deeper connection to Diana. “Even if I was just fantasising, I felt like there were moments where I kind of got the sign-off,” she recounted. To her, Diana felt very much alive during the shooting process, blurring the lines between reality and fantasy. “There were moments where my body and mind would forget she was dead,” Stewart reflected, underscoring the transformative power of role-playing and the emotional weight of embodying someone so iconic.
A New Chapter
Having completed *Spencer*, Stewart is now stepping behind the camera with her directorial debut, *The Chronology of Water*. This psychological drama, which premiered at the Cannes Film Festival, tells the story of a woman who channels her childhood trauma into becoming a competitive swimmer. The film will be released in the UK nine months after its festival debut, showcasing Stewart’s versatility as an artist.
Why it Matters
Kristen Stewart’s reflections on her role as Princess Diana illuminate the impact of portraying real-life figures in film. Her emotional connection to the character not only highlights the struggles faced by Diana but also serves as a reminder of the enduring legacy of the late royal. As Stewart continues to navigate her career amidst the shadows of her past roles, she exemplifies how art can resonate deeply, leaving an indelible mark on both the performer and the audience. In a world where celebrity culture continues to evolve, Stewart’s insights encourage a more compassionate understanding of those who live their lives in the public eye.
