Pamela Anderson Achieves Major Milestone with Her First Movie on Rotten Tomatoes After 33-Year Career

Pamela Anderson is making waves with her latest film, The Last Showgirl, marking a significant milestone in her 33-year acting journey as it secures a fresh status on Rotten Tomatoes. This notable drama, helmed by Gia Coppola—the granddaughter of famed director Francis Ford Coppola—features Anderson in the role of a seasoned showgirl facing an uncertain future after her long-running Las Vegas performance ends abruptly. Furthermore, The Last Showgirl has garnered Anderson her inaugural Golden Globe nomination for Best Actress in a Motion Picture – Drama, showcasing her impressive return to the big screen.

Critics are rallying around The Last Showgirl, perceiving it not just as a film but as a triumphant revival of Anderson’s career. Despite her legendary status, stemming from her iconic role as C.J. Parker in the beloved series Baywatch, it has been years since she last headlined a significant film. While she made a cameo in the 2017 Baywatch movie, her last substantial role was in the cult classic Superhero Movie (2008), where she portrayed the Invisible Girl. The newly released film doesn’t merely represent a comeback; it is receiving stellar reviews, making it a standout success in Anderson’s filmography.

Unprecedented Rotten Tomatoes Fresh Score for The Last Showgirl

A First in Anderson’s Career: Fresh Ratings

Close up of Pamela Anderson holding a cigarette between her teeth in The Last Showgirl

With an impressive 78% critics’ score, The Last Showgirl marks the first occasion in Anderson’s career that one of her films has achieved a fresh rating on Rotten Tomatoes, based on 64 reviews. Critics laud the film for its poignant depiction of the often overlooked working class of Las Vegas, alongside praising Anderson’s performance—considered her best to date. While audience scores are yet to be published, the movie has also received a 71/100 rating on Metacritic and a 6/10 on IMDb.

Pamela Anderson Movie	RT Score
The Last Showgirl	78%
Scary Movie 3	35%
Barb Wire	28%
Baywatch	18%
Superhero Movie	16%

Although Anderson has previously appeared in projects with high Rotten Tomatoes ratings, such as the documentary Pamela, a Love Story, which scored a remarkable 96%, and the mockumentary Borat with its 90% rating, none of these showcased her in traditional acting roles. These successful endeavors predominantly featured her as herself, rather than as a character she portrayed.

The Challenges of Anderson’s Prior Filmography

Genres That Critics Overlooked

Anderson’s earlier films received unfavorable critiques largely because they did not align with the types of cinematic experiences that critics tend to honor. The genres she embraced—ranging from romantic comedies to humorous parodies—generally receive a mixed reception from critics, even if they resonate well with general audiences. Films like Scary Movie 3 may not earn critical acclaim, but they undoubtedly attract a considerable fanbase.

Over time, many of Anderson’s movies have evolved into cult classics despite initial negative reviews. For example, her breakout role in Barb Wire (1996), which resulted in a mere 28% rating on Rotten Tomatoes, is now recognized with a cult following for its inventive take on a dystopian reimagining of Casablanca.

Similarly, Superhero Movie holds a low 16% rating, but those familiar with it appreciate its clever parody of the superhero genre, delivering laughs while tracking a cohesive plot—an achievement that’s not common among other parody films.

Defining Features of The Last Showgirl

A Heartfelt Exploration

Close-up of Pamela Anderson's face in The Last Showgirl

The Last Showgirl distinguishes itself from Anderson’s previous works through its exploration of deep, heartfelt themes and an emotional narrative, compelling her to venture beyond her usual comfort zones. With previous roles often portrayed as superficial, such as her characters in Barb Wire and C.J. Parker, Anderson is now tasked with playing Shelly—a character that demands depth and introspection. Reflecting on her own experience as an aging star, Anderson brings a profound sense of authenticity to her performance.

This film signifies a tangible shift in critics’ perspectives towards Anderson’s work, primarily because it represents a genuine artistic endeavor rather than mere entertainment.

Unlike her previous films, which leaned heavily on spectacle or crass humor, The Last Showgirl shines through its character-driven narrative and the strength of Anderson’s performance. For the first time, audiences and critics alike are recognizing the seriousness and merit of Anderson’s journey as an actress.

Implications of The Last Showgirl’s Rotten Tomatoes Success

A New Chapter in Anderson’s Career

Pamela Anderson putting on a giant feather headpiece in The Last Showgirl

Pamela Anderson’s return to the spotlight is not over yet, as she is set to star in a reboot of The Naked Gun, scheduled for release on August 1, 2025. Following that, she will appear in a supporting role in Rosebush Pruning, a dramatic thriller alongside notable actors like Riley Keough, Callum Turner, and Elle Fanning. Directed by Karim Aïnouz, this film is a remake of the acclaimed 1965 Italian film Fists in the Pocket. Although the release date remains undetermined, it promises to contribute another impressive performance to Anderson’s evolving career.

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