The 90’s Stars Making Hollywood Comebacks - From Pamela Anderson to Brendan Fraser
Katie Light - Mon 18th Nov, 3pm
In a heartwarming trend, veteran actors and actresses are returning to the big screen, bringing a nostalgic note to new Hollywood films. Among the latest stars to step back into the spotlight is Pamela Anderson, known for her iconic role as C.J. Parker on Baywatch in the 1990s.
Pamela Anderson - SOURCE Getty Images/Stefanie Keenan
Anderson is captivating audiences again in The Last Showgirl. This new film follows the journey of a seasoned Las Vegas showgirl grappling with an uncertain future after her 30-year show abruptly ends. It’s a story that mirrors Pamela’s real-life transition into a new phase of her career.
The Baywatch actress’ return is part of a larger resurgence of Hollywood’s older stars, a phenomenon that has been steadily gaining momentum. From Jennifer Coolidge’s Emmy-winning turn in White Lotus to Brendan Fraser’s triumphant performance in The Whale and Ke Huy Quan’s Oscar-winning comeback in Everything Everywhere All At Once, these actors have redefined the trajectory of aging in Hollywood.
Brendan Fraser - SOURCE A24/Getty Images (Lionel Hahn)
The appeal of these comebacks isn’t just nostalgia—it’s also about reinvention. Nicky Morris, an entertainment writer for Hello Magazine, notes that audiences are increasingly drawn to seasoned actors who bring a wealth of experience and nuance to their roles. “People are embracing the older stars of Hollywood more,” she explains. “They’re diversifying their careers after making their names as leading actors.”
Lauren Morris, Deputy TV editor for Reach, agrees. “People love a comeback,” she says. “They’ve entered a new stage in their careers.” Stars like Fraser, Coolidge, and Quan are thriving in an era that celebrates their past while allowing them to adapt to new audiences and formats.
Jennifer Coolidge, once beloved for her comedic turns in Legally Blonde and American Pie, found herself catapulted back into the limelight with White Lotus, her biggest role since 2001. The series showcased Coolidge’s ability to bring depth and humor to her character, earning her accolades and cementing her place as a household name once again.
Similarly, Brendan Fraser’s emotionally charged role in The Whale marked his most significant performance since his days as a box-office draw in films like The Mummy series. His career had waned after allegations of assault and personal struggles, but his recent win at the Oscars was celebrated as a victory for resilience and talent.
Ke Huy Quan’s comeback may be the most heartwarming of all. Having found fame as a child actor in Indiana Jones and the Temple of Doom, Quan disappeared from mainstream Hollywood for decades. His role in Everything Everywhere All At Once reminded audiences of his unique charm and versatility, and his return was a poignant reminder of the industry’s power to welcome back long-lost stars.
Even actors like Hayden Christensen and Christina Ricci have joined the resurgence. Christensen reprised his role as Anakin Skywalker/Darth Vader in Obi-Wan Kenobi, while Ricci delighted fans with her small but significant role in Netflix’s Wednesday. These performances have tapped into viewers’ appetite for nostalgia, a force that continues to drive casting decisions in Hollywood.
This resurgence also speaks to the broader trends in Hollywood. According to Nicky Morris, “about 50% of films now are reboots,” which guarantees a built-in audience. Casting recognizable stars ensures box office and streaming success, blending the familiarity of nostalgia with the excitement of fresh performances.
But this isn’t to say the path has been easy for these actors. Many have had to adjust to playing supporting roles or appearing in ensemble casts rather than headlining projects. “They’ve had to adapt their styles,” Nicky notes. “Back in the day, they probably only did a few interviews. Now they’ve got online, socials, and so many broadcasts to navigate.”
Lauren Morris echoes this sentiment, emphasizing the importance of evolution. “They need to embrace social media more,” she says. “It’s like any industry. They have to evolve and adapt to new practices.”
What makes these returns so compelling? Part of it is the inherent drama of a comeback story. Brendan Fraser’s career nosedive after an alleged assault and subsequent health issues only makes his return to glory more inspiring. Similarly, Quan’s decades-long absence from acting gives his Oscar win an almost fairy-tale quality. These narratives resonate with audiences who root for redemption and second chances.
Another factor is the comfort of familiarity. Stars like Coolidge, Fraser, and Anderson are already recognizable to viewers, making them a safe bet for producers and directors. “They’re more willing to invest in people who are or have been big names rather than newcomers,” Lauren Morris explains. At a time when the entertainment landscape is more crowded than ever, this familiarity can be a powerful draw.
This golden age of comebacks reflects a broader shift in Hollywood’s values. The industry is beginning to acknowledge that talent doesn’t have an expiration date. As these stars demonstrate their ability to evolve and thrive in new contexts, they challenge outdated notions of what it means to age in show business.
Pamela Anderson’s The Last Showgirl is a perfect example of this shift. Much like the seasoned showgirl she portrays, Anderson and her peers are proving that they have plenty left to offer. Whether it’s through nostalgia, reinvention, or simply undeniable talent, these actors are finding their way back to the spotlight—and audiences couldn’t be happier.
Check out the trailer for Pamela’s new film here.