It was an emotional moment of candour that exposed the vulnerabilities and motivations that have driven Kate Winslet to her phenomenal Hollywood success.
During a gruelling reality show learning wilderness survival from Bear Grylls, the Oscar-winning actress opened up about how she was tormented by cruel bullies at school.
That, however, is not the view of one of her former teachers, who recalls popular, bright pupil who "got on so well with everyone" that she was made head girl. Carolyn Keston says that during Ms Winslet's time at Redroofs theatre school in Maidenhead "we never witnessed or heard of any bullying. Certainly nothing was ever relayed to us".
But speaking exclusively to The Mail on Sunday, Winslet says the reasons she did not speak out at the time highlights the isolation and trepidation that bullying victims often feel.
She said: "I chose not to bring it to the attention of the whole school at the time; as is often the case in these circumstances, people being bullied can be apprehensive about speaking out. Instead I sought the counsel of one trusted teacher who guided me through this situation in the most kind, discreet and supportive way.
"I was lucky that my school had this person there for me. My hope, is that anyone being bullied can also find the support, in any way that helps them too."
