Pamela Anderson on missing out on Oscars, ditching makeup and 'innocence' of Baywatch

Pamela Anderson, the well-known actress, has experienced many highs and lows throughout her career. Recently, she shared her thoughts on not receiving an Oscar nomination for her role in the film The Last Showgirl. Despite this setback, she remains optimistic and expressed her excitement about being part of the conversation surrounding the film. 'The win is the work,' she told BBC News, emphasizing that the effort put into acting is what truly matters. At 57 years old, Pamela feels grateful to be recognized for her talent, especially after years of hard work in the entertainment industry. Although she did not receive an Oscar nomination, she was nominated for other prestigious awards, including the Golden Globes and the Screen Actors Guild Awards, for her portrayal of a fading Las Vegas dancer in Gia Coppola's film. The Academy Awards will take place this Sunday in Los Angeles, but Pamela has chosen to wish her fellow actors well instead of focusing on her own disappointment. She believes that every actor understands the importance of having opportunities to showcase their skills. Pamela Anderson first gained fame in the 1990s with her role in the hit television series Baywatch, which became the most-watched show in the world at that time. Even after three decades, she is still primarily recognized for this iconic role. Over the years, fans and critics have learned about various aspects of her life, including her appearances on Playboy covers and her multiple marriages. In 2022, the Hulu series Pam & Tommy depicted the story of how Pamela's private sex tape with her ex-husband Tommy Lee was stolen and distributed without her consent. Pamela later criticized the series, calling it 'shocking' and demanding an apology from its creators. Now, she is starring in a new film that also explores the theme of second chances. In The Last Showgirl, Pamela plays the lead character, Shelly, who must navigate her future after her show unexpectedly closes. Many critics have drawn parallels between Shelly's story and Pamela's own life in the public eye, and she acknowledges this connection. 'I think that’s what drew me to the project, that it was so relatable on so many levels,' she explained. The film's central theme revolves around the challenges women face in maintaining their careers as they age, a struggle that resonates with many generations of women. In the movie, Shelly has a complicated relationship with her daughter, Hannah. Due to her late-night work as a showgirl, Shelly often misses important moments, such as bedtime with her daughter. Pamela relates to this aspect of the story, as she is a mother to two sons, Brandon and Dylan, from her marriage to Tommy Lee. She believes that there is no perfect way to balance motherhood and pursuing one's dreams. 'So this movie is, I think, in a very vulnerable space,' she said. Pamela found it intriguing to portray a character with various imperfections, selfishness, and selflessness. Critics have given The Last Showgirl mixed reviews, but many have praised Pamela's performance, describing her as 'sensitive and beguiling. ' Some reviews have been less favorable, awarding the film only one star, although later reviews improved its rating. Many see this role as a comeback for Pamela, but she prefers to view it as 'a new chapter' in her life. 'I've always been fascinated with the craft of acting,' she stated. 'But my personal life kind of took me off course, and I raised two beautiful boys. ' Pamela is not the only actress making a return this awards season. Demi Moore is also nominated for an Oscar for her role in a film called The Substance, which has revitalized her career. Pamela expressed her happiness for Demi, saying, 'I think she's earned her place. ' With so many strong female characters in this year's films, Pamela was asked about her thoughts on Baywatch. The show has faced criticism for its portrayal of women, with many arguing that the female characters were sexualized and lacked meaningful storylines. However, Pamela sees it differently. 'I didn't see it like that at all. I thought it was quite innocent and wholesome and fun to watch,' she said. She felt empowered by the incredible people she worked with, including lifeguards who were also firefighters. In recent years, Pamela has embraced a more natural look, often appearing without makeup. She believes that taking care of herself is more important than adhering to beauty standards. 'My beauty routine is rest,' she shared. While she is not against makeup, she feels there is a time and place for it. This new chapter in her life has been about self-acceptance and discovering her true self. 'What are my original thoughts? What do I have to give? ' she pondered. Pamela is determined to remember who she is and hopes to play characters in films that reflect her authentic self.