Elizabeth Berkley Reflects on ‘Showgirls’ 30th Anniversary, Career Resilience

Actress Elizabeth Berkley is experiencing a career resurgence, marked by recent roles and a newfound openness about her experiences with the controversial 1995 film Showgirls, which has evolved from a critical failure to a cult classic.

Berkley, known for her earlier role on Saved by the Bell, recently appeared in the indie film Shell, alongside Kate Hudson and Elisabeth Moss, and guest-starred in the final season of Cobra Kai and Ryan Murphy’s All’s Fair. She described Murphy as having “a gift for seeing what someone is actually capable of; maybe they haven’t been given the chance, but he can see beyond that.” The actress detailed a challenging period following the release of Showgirls, stating, “For a good two years, I wasn’t allowed to audition for things,” and emphasized the difficulty of being “locked out of something I loved so much.”

The film, directed by Paul Verhoeven, initially faced widespread criticism and a box office flop, leading to Berkley being dropped by her agency. However, Showgirls gained a devoted following over the years, celebrated for its satirical elements and Berkley’s committed performance. This cultural shift culminated in a recent anniversary tour, including a Cinespia event in October that drew a crowd of 5,000 fans. The film’s enduring legacy highlights the evolving nature of critical reception and the power of cult followings in Hollywood. Berkley is now spearheading a full anniversary tour with Live Nation and WME.

During a recent appearance at the premiere of All’s Fair, Berkley experienced a serendipitous moment when a Versace dress she tried on fit perfectly, echoing a memorable scene from Showgirls. “It was like Cinderella’s slipper,” she said. Berkley expressed her desire to work with directors like Greta Gerwig and hopes to appear on shows like The White Lotus, signaling her continued ambition and drive. The actress’s story serves as an example of navigating a challenging industry and reclaiming one’s narrative. You can learn more about the impact of cult films here.

Berkley plans to continue the anniversary tour and is actively pursuing new projects, aiming to build on her recent momentum and explore diverse roles.