Pamela Anderson's Makeup-Free Choice in "The Last Showgirl": ‘I Wanted It to Be Raw’
In her latest role, Pamela Anderson intentionally opted for a makeup-free look. The actress often embraces this choice in her daily life, and her character in "The Last Showgirl" reflects this ethos. According to Anderson, who portrays Shelly – a Las Vegas dancer with a show-closing – her character is portrayed naturally, without cosmetics except during performances, PEOPLE reported.
"I wanted to show how Shelly would appear if she's going to the grocery store," Anderson stated in a recent interview. She expressed her desire for authenticity, saying she aimed for a portrayal that felt "raw and real." Excited about this commitment to truth, she removed the notion of how she looked from her mind while preparing for scenes.
Anderson reported that during filming, she consciously avoided looking in mirrors. "I didn’t want those thoughts about my appearance to cloud my performance unless it involved showgirl mirrors on set," she shared. This mentality aligns with her vision for the role, focusing on authenticity over glamor.
The actress is gaining noteworthy acclaim for her performance in this film directed by Gia Coppola. Not only is she receiving critical praise, but she is also attracting awards buzz. This new opportunity represents a significant shift in her career, as she embraces a more layered character than previously.
Describing her eagerness for complex roles, Anderson noted how crucial it was for her to claim the part of Shelly. Coppola, they reveal, sought Anderson out personally after the actress’s previous representation overlooked the role. "I read the script and knew I had to do it," she remarked about the undeniable connection she felt to the story.
Anderson's journey continued to evolve as she eventually changed agencies. "I lacked a strong agent who believed in me," she explained. Through "The Last Showgirl," she found the platform to showcase her talent beyond being pigeonholed in a singular image.
Reflecting on her preparation for the film, Anderson mentioned that she approached her character like a theater performance. "I learned the script thoroughly even before arriving in Las Vegas," she explained. However, her approach shifted once filming began, surrendering to Coppola's directorship.
The cast also includes Jamie Lee Curtis, Brenda Song, Billie Lourd, and Kiernan Shipka. "The Last Showgirl" hits theaters on January 10, promising audiences a fascinating glimpse into the complex life of its characters.
Earlier, SSP wrote that Vanessa Williams remembered her mother Helen following her passing.