Well, at least she is consistent. She admitted herself to a mental hospital, which served as preparation for her role in "Girl, Interrupted." Never mind that she didn't know about the role at the time of her self admission -- later, it proved to be a stroke of genius. I suspect that now some witty screenwriter will write a shoplifting role for her, and when she shows up at the premiere for that film, she will talk about her preparation time at Saks.

Here's a question for the peanut gallery: What is "reality" for a method actor? Is there such a thing?

Well, the defence is funny, for sure.
But I don't understand how she can face 9 years in jail for shoplifting. Even for 5000$+ (shoplifting on Rodeo Drive can't come for less I guess).
She obvioulsy has a serious personality disorder which should be treated, but not in jail !
And yes, I know, she behave badly...

"I'm sorry honey, but I was having sex with that floozy because I'm preparing for my next role onstage. You HAVE to understand, I'm going to be playing a philanderer, so you see, it's alright if I fornicate with random women. Method acting and all.

I warned you it would be hard on us if I decided to be an actor, but I SWEAR... it's my love of acting that's making me do this. I SWEAR.

Hmm? What's that? Why I did get passed up for the lead in that John Wayne Gacy play... why do you ask?"

Well, this makes sense now. Winona was a victim of the method system and therefore not responsible for allegedly shoplifting.

This is just SO WRONG! on too many levels.

these celebs are living in another world. "i murdered that guy to prepare for my role officer."

Wow! Note to self, never hire her to star in "The Lizzie Borden Story".

I laughed when I read that headline this morning. "Research". Ha! "Honestly, your honour. The director made me do it!" Very creative defence, I must say.