Sharon Stone reacts to Canadian tourism campaign making Americans teary-eyed
Actress Sharon Stone is among the many Americans sharing their thoughts on a viral Canadian tourism campaign.
In June, Quebec’s Eastern Townships Tourism released a video with a heartwarming message for American tourists, and it even caught the attention of Sharon Stone. Titled “Come hug it out in the Eastern Townships,” the thirty-second video of a man talking to a hotel receptionist.
“Sorry, I don’t speak French,” he says. “I’m just visiting.”
“Well, then, welcome to Canada’s Eastern Townships,” the receptionist says. “Where are you visiting from?”
The man looks around before answering, “I’m American.”
“Ah, okay,” the receptionist responds uncertainly, then pushes a red button under the counter. She quickly steps out from behind the counter and wraps the man in a hug. The man briefly looks confused before laughing and hugging her back.
According to Eastern Townships Tourism, the campaign generated over 7 million views on social media.
Watch the video below:
The video was featured on another social media post, where Stone commented, “Thanks, we need a hug.”
In response to Stone’s reaction, Eastern Townships Tourism stated, “It was a spontaneous response that breathed new life into the campaign and reignited the conversation about the warm welcome of the Eastern Townships and the unique ties between Canada and the United States.”
Other Americans seem to agree.
“This American in Texas would like a Canadian hug, please,” wrote one viewer.
Another shared a story, stating, “Back in March/April, my partner and I decided we needed a vacation. I surprised him with a trip to Montreal and tickets to see the Habs. We are already talking about visiting again. Kindness lives in Canada. I cannot stress how much I appreciate our neighbours to the North. ❤️”
Canadians aren’t the only ones cancelling their trip across the border. March saw a 6.6 percent drop in the number of U.S. residents visiting Canada compared to the same period in 2024.
Just like Eastern Townships Tourism, other tourism destinations across the border are being creative as they try to attract Canadian tourists back amid rising tensions between the two countries.
Church Street, a popular pedestrian street in Burlington, Vermont, has been temporarily renamed to Canada Street until Sept. 1.
In April, California Governor Gavin Newsom shared a video on social media, inviting Canadians to visit.
“Sure, you-know-who’s trying to stir things up in D.C.,” he said. “But don’t let that ruin your beach plans. California, it’s the ultimate playground — 2,000 miles from Washington and a world away in mindset.”