Pamela Anderson Reflects on Oscar Snub, Embracing Authenticity, and 'Baywatch' Innocence

In a candid conversation, Pamela Anderson discusses the highs and lows of her career, her reaction to missing an Oscar nomination, and her evolving relationship with beauty and Hollywood.

 

In a recent interview, Pamela Anderson, now 57, expressed her contentment with missing out on an Oscar nomination for her role in *The Last Showgirl*. The Canadian actress, renowned for her breakout role in the 1990s show *Baywatch*, finds solace in her journey, stating, "The win is the work." Despite receiving nominations from both the Golden Globes and Screen Actors Guild Awards, Anderson remains humble about her acknowledgment in the industry.

Reflecting on her career, the actress noted, "You couldn't have told me I'd be here a decade ago, so this is very exciting for me, to even be in the conversation." At the upcoming Academy Awards, she conveyed good wishes for all nominees, emphasizing the value of performance and sharing talent.

In *The Last Showgirl*, Anderson plays Shelly, an aging Las Vegas dancer navigating her career after her show ends abruptly. Critics have drawn parallels between Shelly and Anderson's own life, portraying themes of resilience and the struggles of middle-aged women in the entertainment industry.

The film addresses motherhood, highlighting Shelly's challenges in balancing her career and personal life, echoing Anderson’s experiences as a mother of two sons from her marriage to rock star Tommy Lee. “There's no proper way to be a parent while also following your dreams,” she reflected, sharing her understanding of the character's complexities.

Despite mixed reviews for the film, Anderson's performance received acclaim, with some critics labeling her role a "comeback." Instead, Anderson views it as a "new chapter" in her acting career, saying, "I've always been fascinated with the craft of acting." She acknowledged the powerful presence of female leads in this year's films and expressed admiration for Demi Moore's recent Oscar nomination, underscoring the importance of earning one's place in Hollywood.

Discussing her iconic role in *Baywatch*, Anderson faced criticism for its depiction of women but insists she perceived it differently. "I always felt like I was surrounded by incredible lifeguards that were also firemen or firewomen. It was really, really empowering," she stated, defending the show’s spirit.

Moreover, Anderson has embraced her natural appearance, often opting for a no-makeup look in recent years. She shared her journey towards self-acceptance, stating, "This chapter has been about self-acceptance and finding out who I am." For her, beauty is determined more by rest and self-awareness rather than adhering to conventional standards. Anderson's evolution signifies not just a change in aesthetics but a deeper understanding of her identity and contributions to the film industry.