Pamela Anderson’s Hollywood career has taken a remarkable turn as she transitions from receiving the Razzie Award for ‘Worst New Star’ to being a nominee for prestigious awards like the Golden Globes. In her latest film, *The Last Showgirl*, she portrays Shelly, a dancer reflecting on her life after her long-running show ends. Director Gia Coppola praises Anderson’s artistic spirit, while she shares her personal journey of rediscovery and resilience, emphasizing the importance of embracing life’s beauty despite past challenges.
Pamela Anderson’s Hollywood journey took a surprising turn when her first major role earned her the Razzie Award for ‘Worst New Star’. Fast forward nearly three decades, and she is now gracing the red carpets as a nominee for esteemed awards like the Golden Globes and SAG Awards. This marks a remarkable comeback for the Canadian actress, who has delivered a stunning performance in The Last Showgirl, a role that might have even warranted an Oscar nomination. Her character navigates the dazzling yet challenging world of Las Vegas, reflecting on her future as a dancer when the show she has been part of for thirty years abruptly comes to an end.
Director Gia Coppola, granddaughter of the legendary Francis Ford Coppola, highlights Anderson’s artistry, stating, ‘I often told Pamela that Shelly always finds a way to stay positive and knows how to bring a smile to others – and in that regard, Pamela resembles her. She is a true artist, a great movie lover, passionate about philosophy and poetry, and she writes very well.’ Coppola adapts this touching story from a play by Kate Gersten.
Reinventing Herself: A Personal Journey
This sensitive film represents a new chapter for the former Baywatch star, who has long been hypersexualized in the media. Two years ago, Anderson took charge of her narrative with the release of a heartfelt documentary and candid memoirs. Presenting herself without filters, she visited Paris last month to advocate for a project that holds deep personal significance. Engaging in a stimulating conversation, Anderson’s warmth creates an inviting atmosphere that is hard to resist.
Finding Strength in Vulnerability
The film opens with Shelly exclaiming: ‘I haven’t auditioned in a long time, this is exciting!’ Did you experience a similar excitement when you were approached for The Last Showgirl?
Reflecting on her journey, Anderson shares, “I believe my entire life has prepared me for this film. Gia Coppola saw the Netflix documentary my son produced and felt I was the perfect fit for Shelly. Although my former agent turned down the script within the hour, Gia reached out to my son Brandon, who told me, ‘Mom, I think you’re really going to love this script’. And I did! I didn’t go through a traditional audition process; my life has been my audition.”
Your experiences and Shelly’s seem to mirror each other…
“Absolutely! I could infuse all my life experiences into this role, creating a genuine empathy for the character. I’ve faced numerous trials throughout my career and personal life, much like Shelly. Both of us have found ways to shine and feel beautiful, even when faced with adversity. The film beautifully captures these moments of ambiguity, allowing the audience to envision Shelly’s potential journey.”
In your autobiography Love, Pamela, you mention: ‘I don’t think of my life in terms of years, but based on the person I loved at that moment.’ Would you say your fifties mark a time of rediscovering your love for acting and yourself as a woman?
“Perhaps! I’ve definitely fallen in love with life in a profound way. There was a time I thought it was over for me, but it was just the beginning. It’s an empowering realization. I thought to myself: ‘I’m capable of so much more. I have so much to offer, and I will ensure my life is beautiful regardless.’ I refuse to be defined by my past; I want my actions to define me.”
Shelly seems to constantly look back, clinging to her cabaret roots. Do you relate to this nostalgia?
“I appreciate nostalgia and often reflect on the beauty of art and culture, from places like the Folies Bergère to the Chat Noir. These historical moments hold significant meaning, especially for women in performance. I find joy in visiting museums and galleries; they nourish my soul. It’s amusing to see modern stars like Beyoncé drawing inspiration from my work in Baywatch and Barb Wire.
Overcoming Challenges and Embracing Resilience
Barb Wire was your first leading role. How was that experience?
“I was just 27 when I filmed Barb Wire. Interestingly, I recently revisited it at my son’s request, watching it in French with English subtitles. I found it surprisingly enjoyable! I’ve always had a knack for crafting characters that resonate emotionally. With Shelly, I could fully realize both her inner and outer worlds.”
In a recent newsletter, you wrote, ‘I felt the weight of words in my life.’ What messages do you wish you had heard early in your career?