35 years ago today, television audiences saw Lucille Ball in a role that defied everything they had come to expect from her. Known for her comedic genius and her iconic role as the lovable, zany Lucy Ricardo in I Love Lucy, Lucille made an extraordinary departure from her usual fare when she portrayed a bag lady in CBS’s Stone Pillow. The ads for the film proclaimed, “Once she made you laugh, tonight she’ll touch your heart.” And touch hearts she did, in a way few could have imagined.
Stone Pillow was not just another television project for Lucy—it was her only made-for-television movie, a personal challenge that pushed her far beyond her familiar comedic territory. After turning down many scripts over the years, she was intrigued by this one. It was a script that called for her to portray Florabelle, an older homeless woman, living on the streets and struggling to survive. In portraying this character, Lucy knew she would be taking a bold risk. She was well aware of the expectations people had of her and how difficult it would be for them to see their beloved Lucy Ricardo in such a downbeat, unglamorous role. But Lucy had always been fearless, and she knew that if she took on this role, it could bring attention to a subject rarely discussed on television: the plight of the homeless, particularly older women who were invisible in society.
She knew that her character’s name, Florabelle, was also a tribute to her grandmother, someone who embodied the “pioneer woman” spirit, full of guts and determination. Lucy infused Florabelle with that same spirit, making her a character that was tough yet tender, vulnerable but resilient. Lucy took her responsibility seriously. The movie was filmed on location in New York, and Lucy threw herself into the role with complete dedication. She worked through injuries and illness, brought on by the intense and unseasonably warm weather. The challenges were immense, but so was her determination to bring Florabelle to life in an authentic and meaningful way.
When Stone Pillow finally aired, it achieved impressively high ratings. Viewers tuned in to see Lucy’s transformation and to witness her take on a role that was so far removed from the slapstick comedy they had come to love her for. However, the reviews were decidedly mixed. Some critics praised her for taking on such a difficult and vulnerable role, for showing a side of herself that audiences had never seen before. Others, however, were less kind. They didn’t want to see Lucy in a role that wasn’t glamorous, a role that focused on the harsh realities of life. They missed the comedy, the lighthearted fun that had been her trademark. But for Lucy, it wasn’t about glamour—it was about raising awareness for an important issue. She hoped that by telling Florabelle’s story, she could shine a light on the often-overlooked struggle of the homeless and give a voice to those who were suffering in silence.
In many ways, Stone Pillow was a deeply personal project for Lucy. She had always been an advocate for social causes, but this movie allowed her to channel that passion into something tangible. She knew that by taking on a role like this, she was stepping into uncharted territory and risking her beloved public image. But the impact she hoped for, the chance to bring attention to homelessness and poverty, was worth the challenge.
While the film’s mixed reviews may have been hard to take, Lucy’s legacy was far from diminished. In fact, Stone Pillow stands as one of her boldest and most courageous acts as an actress. She took a risk, and she did so with grace, integrity, and the same fearless spirit that had made her a legend in the first place. Today, 35 years later, Lucy’s portrayal of Florabelle remains a testament to her willingness to tackle difficult issues and to her unflinching desire to use her platform for good.
As we reflect on her groundbreaking performance, we are reminded of the power of art to address social issues, to challenge perceptions, and to bring attention to those whose stories often go untold. Lucille Ball may have made us laugh for years, but with Stone Pillow, she also made us think—and, in doing so, she touched hearts in a way few others ever could.
✨ Lucille Ball’s transformation in Stone Pillow was a reminder that true artistry lies in the willingness to evolve, to take risks, and to shine a light on the stories that matter most.
