Kristen Stewart has opened up about the profound emotional connection she developed with Princess Diana while portraying her in the acclaimed film *Spencer*. Three years after the film’s release, Stewart admits she is still deeply affected by the late royal’s legacy, revealing that thoughts of Diana can bring her to tears at any moment.
An Unshakeable Connection
In a candid interview, Stewart described how the experience of playing Diana continues to haunt her, stating, “I still am. I can’t drive around London, and Paris for that matter, without thinking about her… all the love that poured out of this woman.” Her portrayal in *Spencer*, which delves into Diana’s tumultuous relationship with the royal family, her battle with an eating disorder, and the heartbreak of her marriage to Prince Charles, earned Stewart an Oscar nomination and left an indelible mark on her psyche.
The film is set around the bleak Christmas of 1991 at Sandringham, and Stewart found that the costume she wore became an integral part of her performance. She described it as “part of the armour” that allowed her to inhabit Diana’s “physical space”, creating evocative imagery of the princess trapped within the confines of royal life.
Parallels Between Lives
Stewart reflected on the similarities between her own experiences and those of Diana, particularly the intense scrutiny both faced from the media. “It does kind of soul-suck,” she remarked, acknowledging the shared struggles of feeling overwhelmed by public attention. She noted that Diana’s rebellious spirit resonated with her, describing it as “so desperate, and so young and so vulnerable.” This connection made her portrayal all the more poignant, as Stewart expressed feeling like “a bit like a shell” once filming concluded. “I think she did too. That was the point,” she added, highlighting the emotional toll the role took on her.
A Spiritual Encounter
While filming *Spencer*, Stewart experienced what she described as “spooky, spiritual feelings,” suggesting that Diana’s presence was palpable during the process. She recounted a sense that the late princess had given her a “sign-off” to fully embrace the role. “Even if I was just fantasising. I felt like there were moments where I kind of got the sign-off,” Stewart explained. “She felt so alive to me when I was making this movie, even if it was just a fantasy of mine.”
Diana’s tragic death in a car crash in Paris in August 1997 remains a poignant chapter in history, and Stewart’s portrayal has reignited public interest in her life and struggles.
New Directions in Stewart’s Career
Stewart is now stepping into the role of director with her new psychological drama, *The Chronology of Water*, which is set to debut in the UK this week following its premiere at the Cannes Film Festival. The film follows a woman, portrayed by Imogen Poots, who channels her childhood trauma into success as a competitive swimmer, showcasing Stewart’s versatility and growth as an artist.
Why it Matters
Kristen Stewart’s reflections on her role as Princess Diana highlight the lasting impact of the late royal’s story, not just on the public, but also on those who portray her. This connection underscores the complexities of celebrity, mental health, and the power of empathy in storytelling. By sharing her emotional journey, Stewart invites audiences to remember Diana not just as a figure of tragedy but as a woman whose life was marked by profound love and vulnerability.
