UPDATE: Cher has opened up about the tumultuous behind-the-scenes drama that impacted the success of her 2010 film Burlesque. During a recent appearance on Dax Shepard’s podcast, the legendary performer revealed how tensions on set held the film back from reaching its full potential.
In a candid discussion on January 5, 2023, Cher, now 79, reflected on the challenges faced while filming Burlesque, which later garnered a cult following. She shared insights alongside former co-star Kristen Bell, who played a standout performer in the film. Cher portrayed Tess Scali, the heartwarming owner of the Burlesque Lounge, while Christina Aguilera starred as Ali, a small-town singer chasing her dreams in Los Angeles.
Cher described the production process as “not exactly a smooth ride.” She emphasized that the film had all the elements to be a crowd favorite, but conflicts among key figures created a challenging atmosphere. When discussing the difficulties, Cher cryptically hinted at the drama, stating, “It could’ve been a fun, great movie if not for ‘you-know-who… except for both of them.” Bell echoed this sentiment, calling the filming experience “hard.”
Amid the chaos, Shepard provided context without naming names, mentioning a romantic relationship between two influential individuals involved in the project, which he claimed contributed to the on-set tensions.
Additionally, Cher revealed a personal grievance regarding the film’s music. She recounted how a top figure attempted to cut her song “You Haven’t Seen the Last of Me” from the movie, stating, “He said, ‘I’m cutting that song because I don’t want Cher to ruin my movie.’” Fortunately, the song remained, ultimately winning a Golden Globe.
Reports leading up to the film’s release highlighted further details on the discord during production. According to The Hollywood Reporter, director Steven Antin and Screen Gems president Clint Culpepper, who were longtime partners, had significant clashes that affected the filming process.
As fans continue to celebrate Burlesque, Cher’s revelations add depth to the film’s legacy. The drama behind the scenes serves as a reminder of the complexities involved in filmmaking, especially when high-profile personalities are at play. Stay tuned for more updates on this developing story and the lasting impact of Burlesque in popular culture.