Reuters

China angry over Stone remarks

Updated 09.59 Thu May 29 2008

Keywords: Sharon, Stone, China, earthquake, Tibet, Cannes, film, movie, Hollywood, actress

Cinemas in China may not show films featuring Sharon Stone after she suggested the recent earthquake was a result of the government's treatment of Tibet.

According to Chinese media, cinemas will not back the actress's movies while Christian Dior boutiques in Beijing have reportedly removed ads featuring the star, who has a modelling contract with the French fashion house.

At least 68,000 people died in the May 12 quake, which came months after unrest in Tibet that sparked an international outcry over Beijing's handling of the region

Speaking in Cannes, the star said in an interview: "I'm not happy about the way the Chinese are treating the Tibetans because I don't think anyone should be unkind to anyone else.

"And then all this earthquake and all this stuff happened, and I thought, 'is that karma - when you're not nice that the bad things happen to you?'"

However, the actress recently apologised for her comments, saying: "In the course of the interview I made inappropriate remarks and for any harm created towards the Chinese people I am extremely sad and apologise."

Chinese bloggers have criticised the actress, calling for the country to boycott her work.

At least 68,000 people died in the May 12 quake, which came months after unrest in Tibet that sparked an international outcry over Beijing's handling of the region.