How a distinctive accent helped Yael Stone secure a breakout television role
In short: Before becoming a household name on Netflix, Australian actress Yael Stone was honing her craft in Sydney's theatre scene. Her journey from a sickly child to a series regular involved navigating complex family histories and mastering a specific, highly praised accent that would define her career.
Born and raised in Sydney, Yael Stone’s early life was shaped by health challenges; she was a sickly child who spent time in the hospital battling asthma and pneumonia. These health issues prevented her from participating in sports, leading her instead toward speech and drama lessons with instructor Robin Fraser. This early training laid the foundation for her education at the Newtown High School of the Performing Arts and the National Institute of Dramatic Art (NIDA).
Stone’s professional ascent was marked by significant success in Australian theatre. Two accolades were hers at the 2008 Sydney Theatre Awards: Best Supporting Actress and Best Newcomer for her role in 'The Kid'. Her theatrical work continued with notable productions such as 'The Diary of a Madman', which she performed in both Sydney and at the Brooklyn Academy of Music in New York City.
In December 2011, Stone moved permanently to New York, a transition that preceded her most famous role. In the Netflix production 'Orange Is the New Black', she played Lorna Morello, a Boston-born inmate. Her performance was noted for its vocal precision; a journalist for The New Republic described her blend of Brooklyn and Boston accents as 'the most amazing accent on television.' This role served as a breakout turn for the actress, who eventually became a series regular in the show's third season.
Beyond her acting, Stone has been involved in significant public discourse. In December 2018, she spoke to The New York Times regarding allegations of sexual misconduct against actor Geoffrey Rush during the production of 'The Diary of a Madman'. Additionally, in January 2020, she announced her intention to return to Australia to engage in the 'climate war' during the 2019-2020 Australian bushfire season.
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