Nevertheless, the two women have sparked huge controversy in news headlines this week. First came Rachael Ray’s notorious scarf from her Dunkin’ Donuts commercial, which according to protestors bore a resemblance to a “keffiyeh” – a traditional Arab headdress that some say has come to symbolise Muslim extremism and terrorism.

Sharon’s recent crime against humanity, however, can’t be attributed to a misguided fashion statement. In a red carpet appearance at the Cannes film festival, Stone sounded off on China, saying:

“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 bad stuff happened, and I thought, is that karma – when you’re not nice that the bad things happen to you?”

So what’s the fallout?

Both these women have lost their endorsement appearances due to backlash from the public, but there’s a bit of a difference between the two circumstances. Dunkin Donuts did pull their online advertisement featuring Ray, but only after the public outcry became unmanageable. The company has stood behind Ray and the ad in the press, releasing this statement:

“In a recent online ad, Rachael Ray is wearing a black-and-white silk scarf with a paisley design. It was selected by her stylist for the advertising shoot. Absolutely no symbolism was intended. However, given the possibility of misperception we are no longer using the commercial.”

Stone, on the other hand, seems to be standing alone when it comes to her public gaffe. Christian Dior, who used the actress to promote its brand, has removed Stone’s image from all department stores and from all advertising in China. The company is also attempting to distance itself from the actress’ comments. Official word said:

“We just want our customers and fans to realise that her personal comments are not related to the company and of course we don’t support any type of commentary that will hurt the feelings of our customers.”

China has gone one step further and has banned Stone’s films from showing in the country (as if anyone wanted to see Basic Instinct again anyway), and Chinese bloggers are expressing their distaste online.

“Don’t give any attention to this old lady,” one blogger wrote. “Don’t watch her movies, don’t buy the products she represents.” More succinctly, another blogger likened Stone to a “dirty swine,” while another told her to “Go to hell.”

To be fair, Stone is apparently repentant for her remarks, releasing this public apology through Chinese media:

“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.”

It’s a shame she couldn’t have whoever choreographs her apologies slap a filter on all the tactless word-farts that slip out of her mouth in the first place.

The Wrap-Up

So that’s the story: two cases of political upheaval, yet two very different scenarios. On one side is Rachael Ray who seems to be the victim of an unfortunate fashion decision and some misguided and overreacting public attacks.

On the other side is Sharon Stone’s big fat mouth, which she seems increasingly willing to use recklessly, regardless of public perception.

Let’s just hope the media and the public choose to persecute the true villain.