Brenda Song recently reflected on her experience filming “The Last Showgirl,” directed by Gia Coppola, and how Pamela Anderson’s embrace of natural beauty influenced the film’s overall aesthetic and her own personal comfort. Anderson, a vocal advocate for makeup-free beauty, encouraged a “less-is-more” approach on set, inspiring Song and others to ditch the makeup.
While the actresses wore heavy makeup for their on-stage showgirl scenes, they opted for a completely bare-faced look off-stage. Song recounted a conversation where Coppola questioned the authenticity of the makeup, prompting Anderson to declare, “These women don’t have time for it,” and subsequently refuse to wear any. This bold move resonated with Song, who had spent years in the entertainment industry, starting as a child actor and often subjected to the pressures of constant makeup application.
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Brenda Song in “The Last Showgirl”. Roadside Attractions.
Song confessed that forgoing makeup in “The Last Showgirl” was liberating. It allowed her to focus on her performance and connect with her character without the added pressure of maintaining a flawless appearance, especially after recently having two children. She attributed her newfound confidence to the supportive and empowering environment fostered by the women on set, who consistently made her feel beautiful.
Anderson’s decision aligned with her personal philosophy for her character, Shelly. She envisioned Shelly as someone who would look natural, as if she were simply “going to the grocery store.” This authentic portrayal resonated with Anderson, who told PEOPLE she felt “ready, prepared, and excited” to embrace this raw and real aesthetic.
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Pamela Anderson in “The Last Showgirl”. Courtesy of Roadside Attractions.
Anderson’s commitment to this natural look extended to avoiding mirrors on set, choosing only to look at herself in the showgirl mirrors used in the film. This conscious decision helped her stay present in her role and avoid overthinking her appearance. Her shift towards a makeup-free lifestyle followed the passing of her longtime makeup artist, Alexis Vogel, in 2019. Anderson revealed that without Vogel, she felt more comfortable embracing her natural beauty. This newfound confidence has been evident in her recent public appearances, including the 2025 Golden Globes, where she confidently graced the red carpet without makeup.
