Pamela Anderson is making a big-screen comeback with her lead role in The Last Showgirl, a drama directed by Gia Coppola. The teaser trailer, released on November 14, 2024, provides a glimpse into Anderson’s portrayal of Shelly, a seasoned Las Vegas showgirl facing the abrupt end of her 30-year career. With a mix of glamour and introspection, The Last Showgirl promises to showcase Anderson in a whole new light.
The story centers on Shelly as she grapples with the unexpected closure of her revue. The trailer contrasts Shelly’s dazzling onstage persona with vulnerable moments behind the curtain, revealing a layered character navigating her way through loss and reinvention. Anderson’s performance, balancing strength and fragility, has already sparked buzz among critics, with some even speculating about a potential Oscar nod.
Joining Anderson is an impressive ensemble cast. Jamie Lee Curtis plays Annette, a former showgirl turned cocktail waitress, and Dave Bautista steps into the role of Eddie, the revue’s producer. Brenda Song portrays Marianne, a fellow performer, while Kiernan Shipka and Billie Lourd star as Jodie and Hannah, respectively—the latter being Shelly’s daughter, caught between admiration and worry for her mother. The film’s soundtrack, enriched by Miley Cyrus’s original song “Beautiful That Way,” adds an extra layer of star power.
Director Gia Coppola, who helmed Palo Alto and Mainstream, has praised Anderson’s talent and dedication, describing her as a modern-day Marilyn Monroe. Coppola expressed her admiration for Anderson’s depth and intelligence, emphasizing how the role allows her to break free from her public image and demonstrate the full range of her acting skills. It’s a deliberate attempt to showcase Anderson beyond the familiar tabloid headlines and bring a new dimension to her career.
The Last Showgirl made its premiere at the Toronto International Film Festival in September 2024, where Anderson’s performance was met with enthusiastic praise. Many lauded her for the authenticity and poignancy she brought to Shelly, a character who personifies resilience against the odds. The film captures themes of identity, reinvention, and the stark contrast between the glitz of show business and the realities of personal struggle.
The film is set for a limited theatrical release on December 13, 2024, with a nationwide expansion planned for January 10, 2025. As the awards season approaches, the buzz around Anderson’s performance continues to build, and The Last Showgirl stands out as a significant moment in her career—one that may well redefine her public image and legacy.
The Last Showgirl isn’t just another comeback story; it’s a deeply human portrayal of what happens when the spotlight fades, and Anderson is embracing every moment of it.
