Elizabeth Berkley Reclaims Her Showgirls Narrative 30 Years Later

In November 2025, actress Elizabeth Berkley is celebrating a major milestone – the 30th anniversary of the release of her breakout film, Showgirls. The 1995 NC-17 film, directed by Paul Verhoeven, was initially panned by critics and bombed at the box office, leading to Berkley being dropped by her talent agency. However, over the years, Showgirls has undergone a remarkable cultural reevaluation, with the film now being celebrated as a deliciously indulgent satire.

Berkley, now 51 years old, is spearheading a full anniversary tour for Showgirls, hosting screenings and events in at least 10 U.S. cities. This marks a significant shift from 30 years ago, when Berkley had to tour the world alone to meet press requirements for the film. Now, she is reclaiming her narrative and connecting with the passionate Showgirls fanbase.

Berkley's acting career has continued to evolve since the Showgirls debacle. In the past year, she has appeared in the indie film Shell, guest-starred in the final season of Cobra Kai, and landed a role in the star-studded legal drama All's Fair. Her talent and resilience have been recognized, with director Ryan Murphy noting Berkley's ability to exceed expectations when given the right opportunities.

As Berkley looks to the future, she is eager to manifest new creative opportunities, mentioning directors like Greta Gerwig as potential collaborators. Her journey from the Showgirls disaster to the film's current cult status is a testament to her perseverance and the power of cultural reevaluation.