Pamela Anderson has experienced numerous highs and lows throughout her career. Perhaps this explains her composed reaction to missing out on an Academy Award nomination for her performance in The Last Showgirl.
“The real victory lies in the work itself,” the Canadian actress told BBC News.
“A decade ago, I could not have imagined being in this position, so simply being part of this conversation is thrilling for me.”
Anderson, 57, did secure nominations at the Golden Globes and the Screen Actors Guild Awards for her role in Gia Coppola’s film, which centres on the life of a fading Las Vegas showgirl. However, she will not be competing for an Oscar at this Sunday’s ceremony in Los Angeles.
“I wish everyone the very best,” she remarked.
“I believe that any actor understands that recognition is simply an opportunity to continue performing and sharing one’s talent with the world.”
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A Career Defined by Baywatch and Beyond
Anderson initially gained widespread recognition in the 1990s television series Baywatch. The lifeguard drama became the most-watched television show globally at the time, solidifying her place in popular culture.
However, over the past three decades, both fans and critics have become acquainted with various facets of Anderson’s life—her multiple Playboy magazine covers, a leaked private video, and her numerous marriages.
In 2022, Hulu’s Pam & Tommy depicted the infamous saga of Anderson’s stolen and illegally distributed private video, which she had made with her former husband, Mötley Crüe drummer Tommy Lee, in the mid-90s. Anderson later condemned the series in an interview with Variety, describing it as “shocking” and calling for an apology from those involved.
A New Chapter: The Last Showgirl
Now, Anderson is embracing a fresh start with The Last Showgirl, a film that also explores themes of reinvention.
In the film, Anderson’s character, Shelly, is forced to rethink her future after her show suddenly shuts down. Many critics have noted parallels between the film and Anderson’s own life, a comparison she does not dispute.
“That was what attracted me to the project—the fact that it resonated with me on so many levels,” Anderson said.
She also acknowledged the film’s exploration of the challenges faced by women in later middle age, particularly within the entertainment industry.
“This is a struggle that countless generations of women have had to navigate,” she added.
The character of Shelly also grapples with a strained relationship with her daughter, Hannah. The late hours and demanding schedule of her profession cause her to miss significant moments in her child’s life. Anderson admitted she could relate to this aspect of the role, given her experiences as a mother to two sons, Brandon Thomas, 28, and Dylan Jagger, 27, whom she shares with Tommy Lee.
“For working mothers, there is no perfect way to balance parenting with a career,” she reflected.
“This film delves into that vulnerability, showing both the selfishness and selflessness of the character. There are many layers and nuances that I deeply connected with.”
Despite mixed critical reception, Anderson’s performance in The Last Showgirl has been widely praised. The New York Times described her portrayal as “sensitive and beguiling,” while The Guardian, after an initial lukewarm response, revised its rating from one star to three.
Many have described the role as Anderson’s “comeback,” though she prefers to see it as “a new chapter.”
“I have always been intrigued by the craft of acting,” she explained. “But my personal life took me in a different direction as I focused on raising my two sons.”
The Evolving Industry and Baywatch’s Legacy
Anderson is not the only actress experiencing a resurgence this awards season. Demi Moore has secured a Best Actress nomination for The Substance, a body horror film that has revitalised her career.
“I am absolutely thrilled for Demi,” Anderson said. “She has worked hard to earn this moment, and in this industry, you truly have to fight for your place.”
With so many films now featuring strong female protagonists, Anderson was asked how she currently views Baywatch, which has often been criticised for its portrayal of women, arguing that female characters were over-sexualised and given limited storylines.
“I never saw it that way,” Anderson stated. “To me, it was innocent, wholesome, and entertaining.”
“I always felt surrounded by incredible people—many of whom were real lifeguards, firefighters, and first responders. It was a truly empowering experience.”
Embracing Natural Beauty
Anderson, once an emblem of 90s beauty ideals—slim, blonde, and enhanced by cosmetic surgery—has recently opted for a more natural appearance, often appearing in public without makeup.
“My beauty routine is centred around rest. That is what matters most to me these days,” she shared.
While she does not oppose makeup, she believes it should be used at the right time and place.
“This phase of my life is about self-acceptance and understanding who I truly am. What are my own thoughts? What do I have to contribute?”
“I know I have more to offer—both to this industry and the world in general. But first, I must reconnect with my authentic self before taking on new characters on screen.”
Additional Context:
Pamela Anderson has been a cultural icon since the 1990s, navigating both stardom and controversy. From her early modelling career to her humanitarian efforts, she has continuously reinvented herself. Recently, her Netflix documentary Pamela, A Love Story provided an intimate look at her life, revealing her struggles and triumphs. Her return to the big screen marks a significant moment in her journey, proving that she is more than just a nostalgic figure—she is a woman embracing her future on her own terms.