Elizabeth Berkley Overcomes Career Setback After ‘Showgirls’ Flop
Elizabeth Berkley faced significant career challenges following the release of the 1995 film, Showgirls. Initially, the movie, which centered on a young woman’s journey to become a showgirl in Las Vegas, was met with harsh criticism and ultimately flopped at the box office.
Impact of Showgirls on Elizabeth Berkley’s Career
In a recent interview with The Hollywood Reporter, Berkley discussed the backlash she faced after Showgirls. She described feeling “locked out” of Hollywood. For two years, she was unable to audition for new roles, which was painful for someone who cherished acting. Berkley stated, “The hardest part was being literally locked out of something I loved so much.”
Reflecting on Criticism
Though the criticism was overwhelmingly negative, Berkley remained resilient. She emphasized the importance of separating public perception from her self-worth. “I couldn’t understand how people could be so cruel, but I’m tough,” she remarked, stressing her perseverance in the face of adversity.
Redemption and Cult Classic Status
Over the years, Showgirls has transformed into a cult classic. Berkley expressed her pride in this resurgence, noting, “It’s such an amazing moment to think that this movie that in the ’90s you thought maybe would die on a video shelf at Blockbuster is now this massive cult classic.” She has been surprised by how new audiences have embraced the film.
Engagement with Fans
Recently, Berkley shared a meaningful interaction with a group of women from Spain who discovered Showgirls. They approached her to express how the film resonated with them, highlighting the surprising longevity of interest in the film.
- Film Title: Showgirls
- Release Year: 1995
- Initial Box Office Performance: Flopped
- Cult Status: Gained popularity over the years
Elizabeth Berkley’s journey illustrates the complexities of celebrity and the power of resilience. Despite the initial setbacks, she continues to find pride in her work, sharing her story as both cautionary and inspirational. Berkley’s experience serves as a reminder of the evolution in audience perception and the impact of time on art.
