Pamela Anderson's acting career has taken center stage during the 2025 awards season, marking a significant comeback for the 57-year-old actress. Despite being overlooked for the Best Actress nomination at the Academy Awards for her role in The Last Showgirl, she has garnered notable recognition with nominations at both the Golden Globes and SAG Awards.
Anderson's son, Brandon Thomas Lee, expressed his pride and support for his mother amid the Oscars snub, stating, "The win is in the work. I think everyone gets caught up in the Oscars -- which would have been an incredible honor, but Pamela is very happy with how the film has been received." His sentiments highlight the essence of Anderson's current success: the joy derived from her craft.
Participations at award shows this season have elevated Anderson's profile, as she impressed audiences with her natural beauty, opting for a minimalist, makeup-free look. It is important to note her decision to stop wearing makeup following the death of her long-time makeup artist, Alexis Vogel, from breast cancer. Anderson reflected, “Without Alexis, I would simply prefer not to wear makeup, I would go against the rules and do the opposite.” This personal decision reflects not just her shift toward authenticity but also her willingness to embrace vulnerability.
The actress has experienced significant recognition for her latest role in the film directed by Gia Coppola, The Last Showgirl. The film has been received with rave reviews, validating Anderson's return to the industry after years of personal challenges and lesser roles. Anderson's portrayal has sparked conversation about her enduring talent, making critics and fans alike reconsider her place within the acting community. She was recently honored with the Art of Light Award at the GEMS ceremony for her impactful performance.
Despite her achievements, the Oscars snub was notable. The nominees for Best Actress included Cynthia Erivo for Wicked, Mikey Madison for Anora, and Demi Moore for The Substance, leaving Anderson's name off the list. During this emotional time, she remained optimistic, noting, "I always say the win is in the work. I got to do something I really love, and I needed to do it for my soul." This perspective has become her mantra, pushing her forward regardless of external validation.
Brandon reiterated how the recognition is much more than awards: “She’s already won the fans and her colleagues’ hearts,” he said. He pointed out how these nominations have reignited Anderson's desire to pursue new opportunities, calling this phase of her career both unexpected and exciting. Regardless of whether she snagged the nomination or not, Brandon emphasized the importance of the connections his mother is making within the industry, marking the beginning of a new chapter for her.
Alongside her acting pursuits, Anderson has successfully dived back not just acting but also writing—a memoir titled Love, Pamela was released last year. This 230-page account covers her life experiences, from her childhood to her time at Playboy and beyond, providing insight and closure on what has been tumultuous in her past.
Her film The Last Showgirl came at the heels of Pamela, A Love Story, which Brandon produced and which has also helped shape the public’s perception of his mother. The documentary spurred Gia Coppola’s interest, prompting her to envision Anderson for the role of Shelley—based on the notion of Anderson as “a modern-day Marilyn” striving for self-expression. The narrative is compelling, tackling themes of identity and redemption.
Reflecting on this new commitment to her artistic endeavors, Anderson’s stance has shifted dramatically from her early struggles. She described acting as “a survival mechanism,” emphasizing the solitary nature of the artistic profession and sharing personal insights on overcoming challenges throughout her career.
Highlighting her resilience, Anderson noted, “I’ve been objectified at times, and written off. I’ve made mistakes, reinvented myself time and time again.” Her tenacity stands as both personal and professional proof of her determination to rise against adversity.
Looking forward, Pamela Anderson is poised to embrace whatever opportunities come her way, unhindered by the past. “I think I gave up being an actress at one point, went to my garden, made pickles and jam, wrote a cookbook...,” she laughed. Yet, here she is, currently receiving invitations from fashion brands and featuring at significant events, including the recent Dior Haute Couture show.
The tone of the awards season serves to remind both the industry and audiences of Anderson's depth and dedication as she continues to assert her place within Hollywood. Whether through acting, writing, or simply being true to herself, it is clear the narrative of her career is being rewritten, making way for new beginnings and fresh narratives.
To conclude, the story of Pamela Anderson’s retaking of Hollywood speaks not merely to awards but also to the heart of artistic expression—a reminder of her past struggles, current accolades, and the fascinating road yet to be traveled as she embraces the essence of creativity with authenticity.