Pamela Anderson's portrayal of Shelly, a Las Vegas showgirl in "The Last Showgirl," captivated critics and audiences alike, sparking discussions about a potential Best Actress nomination for the 2025 Oscars. However, when the nominations were announced, Anderson's name was notably absent, leading many, including Entertainment Weekly, to label it a snub. Despite the buzz surrounding her performance, Anderson expressed that she was not surprised by the outcome.
The character of Shelly resonated deeply with Anderson, marking a significant turn in her acting career. As Shelly, Anderson navigates the unexpected closure of her long-running revue after 30 years under the spotlight. This role pushed Anderson into new emotional territories, as she told Entertainment Weekly in November, "I've never read a script that I responded to like that before — no one was sending me anything like this." Her portrayal received acclaim, with critics praising her ability to convey Shelly's uncertainty about the future.
"Oh my gosh, it's not something I ever expected," said Pamela Anderson about her Oscar nomination.
Despite not securing an Oscar nomination, Anderson was recognized by her peers with a Screen Actors Guild (SAG) nomination. The acknowledgment from the SAG provided a meaningful validation for Anderson, who at 57, continues to redefine her career in Hollywood. The film, which also stars Jamie Lee Curtis, Brenda Song, and Kiernan Shipka, offered a challenging yet rewarding experience to Anderson, allowing her to showcase a depth that had remained untapped in her previous roles.
"I screwed up. I didn't work hard enough or people just see me a certain way because I fell into the trappings. I want to be defined by what I do and not what has been done to me," Anderson remarked candidly.
Anderson's reaction to the Oscar snub was surprisingly composed. She mentioned that winning an Oscar was never something she envisioned for herself: "I couldn't imagine it anyway." This perspective highlights her focus on the craft rather than accolades. Her ability to bring Shelly's journey to life has indeed left an indelible mark on audiences and may pave the way for future opportunities.
