Pamela Anderson, renowned for her role on 'Baywatch,' is articulating both pride and acceptance surrounding her Oscar snub for 'The Last Showgirl.' The Canadian actress, now 57, emphasized that the journey itself is what truly counts – a sentiment she shared during a BBC News interview. Although nominated for several awards, including Golden Globes and SAG Awards, her absence from the Academy has not dampened her enthusiasm for the craft.
Reflecting on her early fame, Anderson addressed the earlier controversies in her life that have shaped her. From iconic Playboy covers to the fallout of the infamous sex tape scandal, she has traversed a tumultuous path. The Hulu series 'Pam & Tommy' brought renewed attention to her narrative, which Anderson described as "shocking" and called for an apology from the creators.
In 'The Last Showgirl,' Anderson portrays Shelly, an aging Las Vegas dancer grappling with the challenges of reinventing herself. Critics have noted similarities between Anderson's life and her character, with themes of motherhood and the struggles of female careerists resonating throughout the film. “It’s a very relatable story for many generations of women,” she remarked.
Despite mixed reviews of the film's overall reception, Anderson's portrayal has garnered praise, with The New York Times referring to her performance as “sensitive and beguiling.” The term “comeback” has emerged in discussions about her role, but Anderson identifies it more as a “new chapter” in her trajectory, one marked by both personal growth and professional ambitions.
As the conversation shifted to her past role in 'Baywatch,' Anderson maintained a sense of nostalgia, stating she perceived the show as "innocent and wholesome," countering the critique regarding the sexualization of female characters.
In a departure from her 90s glam persona, Anderson has also adopted a more natural look, advocating self-acceptance as her primary focus. “Rest is my beauty routine,” she noted, emphasizing the significance of understanding one's personal identity apart from public perceptions.
As Anderson navigates this new phase of her career, she remains hopeful and eager to continue exploring roles that resonate with her authentic self, inviting the world to witness her evolving journey in film and beyond.
