TORONTO – Pamela Anderson’s dream role has taken thirty years to come to life.

This lengthy wait corresponds with Shelley, the character Anderson portrays in Gia Coppola’s new ensemble drama, “The Last Showgirl.” Shelley is a seasoned performer in the Las Vegas production “Le Razzle Dazzle.” The show’s closure and Shelley’s emotional journey present Anderson with a significant role she has long been prepared to embrace.

“I feel like I’ve been preparing my whole life for this part,” Anderson, 57, stated during a Q&A after the film’s premiere at the Toronto International Film Festival on Friday.

“It’s the first time I’ve encountered a well-written script,” she added, referencing her previous experiences in the industry. “I’ve never had a coherent script presented to me before. So, I was completely on board. I’ve never felt such a strong urge about a project.” When Coppola extended the offer, Anderson decided to seize the opportunity: “I have nothing to lose. I’m going for it.”

In “The Last Showgirl,” Anderson portrays Shelley as she navigates a life shift for the first time in years, showcasing her talent as an aging showgirl auditioning alongside younger performers. The story also delves into the emotional landscape as Shelley reconnects with her estranged 22-year-old daughter, Hannah (played by Billie Lourd).

But Shelley isn’t the only one facing an uncertain future; her best friend Annette (Jamie Lee Curtis), an ex-showgirl and cocktail waitress, is also figuring things out, along with the stage manager (Dave Bautista) and her younger colleagues (Brenda Song and Kiernan Shipka).

“Life is tough wherever you go, and it’s particularly harsh in Las Vegas,” remarked Curtis, who felt emotional after watching the film for the first time. “This film is about pursuing your dreams, yet those dreams can lead to a stark reality, especially for women, which men often don’t experience to the same extent.

“Annette serves as a lens through which we see what unfolds. And of course, a good spray tan helps.”

‘Last Showgirl’ Helped Billie Lourd Connect with Her Mom, Carrie Fisher

Filming “The Last Showgirl” took just 18 days and was significant for many cast members. Bautista recalled a challenging phase in his career about eight years ago when he was predominantly offered action roles. In search of fulfilling opportunities, he met Coppola that eventually led to his casting.

Song described being at a pivotal point in her career when her agent called her about the film while she was sitting in a Costco parking lot. “Everything fell into place, and I’m incredibly proud of our team and grateful to be part of this,” she said.

Lourd held the film close to her heart, discussing her relationship with Coppola about her mother Carrie Fisher and grandmother Debbie Reynolds.

“Portraying this character was incredibly healing for me, as it felt like Shelley represented my grandmother, allowing me to embody my mother,” Lourd explained. “It deepened my understanding of my mom more than ever before.

“Working with Pamela was a true blessing. She is an incredible mother in real life, and her nurturing role during filming made me feel fortunate.”