Kristen Bell and Dr. Stacy L. Smith Launch Groundbreaking Grant for Mental Health-Focused Short Films

Breaking News: Kristen Bell and Dr. Stacy L. Smith Launch Grant for Mental Health-Focused Short Films Actress Kristen Bell and Dr. Stacy L. Smith, founder of USC's Annenberg Inclusion Initiative, have launched the Mental Health Accelerator, a new initiative to support emerging filmmakers and fund short films focused on mental health stories. Key Facts: The program aims to increase authentic mental health storytelling in film. It comes after a report by the Annenberg Inclusion Initiative found only 1.7% of speaking characters across top-grossing movies in 2024 had a mental health condition, despite 23.4% of U.S. adults experiencing similar issues. Timeline: The initiative was announced on October 20, 2025. Applications for the grant will open soon, with selected filmmakers receiving funding and support to produce their short films. Immediate Impact: The Mental Health Accelerator has already sparked a wave of interest among emerging filmmakers, who see this as an opportunity to bring much-needed attention to mental health issues. "We're thrilled to be part of this initiative," said Bell in a statement. "By supporting authentic storytelling, we hope to break down stigmas and promote understanding." Background Context: The Annenberg Inclusion Initiative has been tracking diversity and inclusion in the film industry for several years. Their report on mental health in top-grossing movies highlights the need for more accurate representation of mental health conditions. What Happens Next: Applications for the Mental Health Accelerator grant will be accepted soon, with selected filmmakers receiving funding and support to produce their short films. The initiative aims to increase authentic mental health storytelling in film and promote understanding and empathy among audiences. *This story is developing. Information compiled from Variety reporting.*