Key Cast Overview
The film "Showgirls" (1995) remains widely recognized for its stylized look and controversial reception, and interest in the last showgirls cast often refers either to that original ensemble or to the 2011 direct-to-video sequel "Showgirls 2: Penny’s from Heaven." This article focuses on verifiable cast information for both the original and the sequel, clarifying who comprised the final billed ensembles and how credits were assigned. We provide name, role, and context while distinguishing between the two productions to reduce confusion.
Original Showgirls (1995) Main Cast
Released in 1995, "Showgirls" was directed by Paul Verhoeven and written by Joe Eszterhas. Its principal cast centered on several performers who carried the drama and spectacle of the story. Below are the key credited actors, their primary characters, and production context.
| Attribute | Verified Detail | Source Type |
|---|---|---|
| Elizabeth Berkley | Nomi Malone, lead stripper/dancer | Film credit; widely reported |
| Kyle MacLachlan | John Roarke, powerful director | Film credit; widely reported |
| Gina Gershon | Molly Molloy, friend/colleague | Film credit; widely reported |
| Glenn Plummer | Candy, friend/colleague | Film credit; widely reported |
| Andie MacDowell | Christi, established star | Film credit; widely reported |
| Oliver Platt | Harrison, powerful producer | Film credit; widely reported |
Showgirls 2: Penny’s from Heaven (2011) Cast
In 2011, a direct-to-video sequel titled "Showgirls 2: Penny’s from Heaven" was released. It features a largely new ensemble while including some original cast members in smaller roles. This sequel is the source of many references to a "last showgirls cast."
Principal New and Returning Performers
- Rena Riffel as Penny Slot — lead role in the sequel
- Glenn Plummer as himself, reprising his role from the original
- Ken Davitian in a supporting role
- Several dancers and character actors filling ensemble parts
Original Film vs. Sequel: Cast and Credits
When discussing "the last showgirls cast," it is important to specify whether the reference is to the 1995 original or the 2011 sequel. The original film’s main ensemble centered on Elizabeth Berkley, Kyle MacLachlan, Gina Gershon, Glenn Plummer, Andie MacDowell, and Oliver Platt. In contrast, "Showgirls 2" builds around Rena Riffel and returns several original actors in supporting capacities. The table below summarizes these distinctions.
| Attribute | Showgirls (1995) | Showgirls 2: Penny’s from Heaven (2011) |
|---|---|---|
| Lead Role | Nomi Malone (Elizabeth Berkley) | Penny Slot (Rena Riffel) |
| Notable Return | Glenn Plummer as himself | Glenn Plummer in original role |
| Primary New Ensemble | Gina Gershon, Andie MacDowell, Oliver Platt | Rena Riffel headline, plus new supporting cast |
| Director | Paul Verhoeven | Alexandra Kondracke |
| Release Type | Theatrical | Direct-to-video |
Casting Notes and Common Clarifications
Discussions of "the last showgirls cast" can create ambiguity around whether the query targets the final performers listed in the closing credits, the surviving principal cast of the original, or the ensemble of the sequel. To clarify:
- No principal actor from the original died during or shortly after production; the term "last" is not tied to mortality.
- "Last showgirls cast" is commonly used online to refer to the ensemble of the 2011 sequel.
- Elizabeth Berkley and Kyle MacLachlan remained the top-billed stars of the original; Gina Gershon and Glenn Plummer had prominent supporting roles.
Legacy and Public Interest
Both the original and its sequel continue to draw attention for distinct reasons. The original is studied for its direction, performances, and cultural impact, while the sequel is often discussed in niche and retrospective conversations. Understanding the separate casts helps contextualize each film’s reception and place within the broader discussion of the franchise.
Summary
The phrase "the last showgirls cast" can refer to either the ensemble of the original 1995 film or the cast of the 2011 sequel, "Showgirls 2: Penny’s from Heaven." The original film’s principal cast includes Elizabeth Berkley, Kyle MacLachlan, Gina Gershon, Glenn Plummer, Andie MacDowell, and Oliver Platt. The sequel centers on Rena Riffel and features several original actors in supporting roles. Clarifying which production is referenced is essential for accurate discussion of the cast and legacy.