Pamela Anderson made a stunning return to the Met Gala red carpet on May 5, 2025, showcasing a bold new look that has fans buzzing. The 57-year-old actress and activist, renowned for her iconic blonde locks, debuted a chic blunt bob paired with striking baby bangs, a dramatic shift from her usual beachy waves. The actress walked the blue carpet alongside her son, Brandon Thomas Lee, who looked dapper in a custom tuxedo by Genuardi.
Anderson's hair transformation was first revealed just days prior at the Tory Burch Foundation Founders Breakfast, where she sported a flowing off-white two-piece ensemble complemented by a cream bucket hat. This new hairstyle, which now sits just above her chin, is cut straight across with bangs that rest high above her brows, highlighting her cheekbones and drawing attention to her striking features. Fans and fashion critics alike have noted that this look marks a significant departure from her previous style, with many praising the fresh aesthetic.
At the Met Gala, Anderson dazzled in a silver crystal-embellished gown by Tory Burch, which featured a strong hourglass silhouette adorned with baby blue, black, and steely gems. The gown perfectly matched her diamond climber earrings from Pandora, a brand she has been representing as an ambassador. Anderson's ensemble not only showcased her fashion prowess but also her growing confidence as she embraces a more natural aesthetic, often opting for little to no makeup at public events.
Reflecting on her evolving image, Anderson shared her thoughts on beauty and self-acceptance in recent interviews. In 2023, she told People, "I’m makeup-free at home, so why not for Paris Fashion Week? I really didn’t know anyone would notice it, but I’m glad it became a positive message." This sentiment echoed her comments to Better Homes & Gardens in 2024, where she expressed her journey of letting go of the image she once held. "What is this cartoon character that I’d created? Okay, that was fun. But I’m not that person anymore," she said.
Anderson’s shift towards a more natural look was partly inspired by the passing of her longtime makeup artist and close friend, Alexis Vogel, in 2019. "She was the best. And since then, I just felt, without Alexis, it’s just better for me not to wear makeup," she revealed to ELLE in 2023. Despite this, she still enjoys the artistry of makeup for special occasions, as seen in her previous Met Gala appearance in 2024, where she collaborated with renowned makeup artist Pat McGrath.
During that event, Anderson wore a stunning white Oscar de la Renta gown and a dramatic headpiece by Noel Stewart. McGrath noted, "Pam wanted to wear makeup again for the Met Gala, so we created a look that acknowledged her natural beauty but then took it to the next level. We wanted to explore the next incarnation of natural—an elevation of natural—and to show how you can wear a full face of makeup but in a very fresh and beautiful way." This year, however, Anderson opted for a more minimalist approach, allowing her new haircut to take center stage.
As she continues to redefine her image, Anderson has also been busy with her career. Her role as Shelly, a veteran Las Vegas dancer in Gia Coppola’s film The Last Showgirl, has garnered critical acclaim and even earned her a Golden Globe nomination. The film, which premiered earlier this year, focuses on themes of second chances and self-rediscovery, mirroring Anderson's own journey. In a recent interview, she remarked, "I’ve learned along the way that happiness is a choice. We’ve all lived difficult lives, and we’re all fighting these invisible battles. That’s why we need to be kind to one another."
At the Met Gala, Anderson's appearance with her son Brandon added a heartwarming touch to the evening. Brandon, who is not only an actor but also an executive producer on The Last Showgirl, expressed his desire to give back to his mother, stating, "My personal mission was to give my mom the opportunities she gave me as a child. She would do anything for me. She showed up and was a very good mother." The duo's bond was evident as they posed together, making their appearance one of the highlights of the event.
Anderson’s participation in the Met Gala is part of a broader trend of celebrity returns to the iconic event, with many stars using the platform to showcase their personal growth and style evolution. As she walked the blue carpet, it was clear that Anderson is not only a fashion icon but also a symbol of resilience and self-acceptance. Her journey from the blonde bombshell of the 90s to a more sophisticated and confident version of herself is inspiring to many.
With her recent successes and transformative looks, Pamela Anderson is certainly a figure to watch in the coming years. As she continues to embrace her true self, it’s evident that her impact on the fashion world and beyond will only grow stronger. Whether she’s donning a glamorous gown or stepping into the spotlight with a fresh haircut, Anderson remains a captivating presence, proving that beauty and confidence come from within.
