For Sharon Stone, "The Practice" could be perfect.
USA Today reports that the "Basic Instinct" actress, 45, is in talks to join ABC's legal drama for three or four episodes, which could then result in a full-time role.
Just last week, actor James Spader was negotiating to join "The Practice" now that producer David E. Kelley has opted to replace outgoing cast members Dylan McDermott, Lara Flynn Boyle, Kelli Williams, Lisa Gay Hamilton, Marla Sokoloff and Chyler Leigh, according to the Hollywood Reporter.
Stone and Spader, 43, would join remaining regulars Camryn Manheim, Michael Badalucco, Steve Harris and Jessica Capshaw on the 8-year-old series. Spader's role would be that of a character named Alan Shore, described by the trade paper as a complicated and ethically challenged lawyer.
The dramatic downsizing of the Boston law firm of Donnell, Young, Dole & Flutt, which resulted in the ousting of McDermott and the others, was initially blamed on the drastic reduction -- an estimated 50 percent -- of the licensing fee paid by ABC for the Emmy-winning series. (No word on how Stone and Spader's asking prices would affect the bottom line.)
Kelley also reportedly wished to follow the lead of "Law & Order" and "ER," which have revolving doors when it comes to casting.
Besides the probable "Practice" gig, Stone has been talked up to play Hillary Clinton in a TV movie for A&E about the former First Lady-turned-U.S. Senator from New York. The film is due to air in 2004.
A&E's chief programmer Robert DeBitetto tells the New York Post: "We think it'll make fantastic entertainment. The story's got all the elements, it's got humor, there's pathos, drama, relevance and topicality.
"We certainly hope that it'll be a fair and balanced portrayal."
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