Billie Lourd Says Working on The Last Showgirl Made Her Feel Closer to Mom Carrie Fisher, Grandma Debbie Reynolds

Billie Lourd has opened up about her emotional experience working on The Last Showgirl, revealing that the project brought her closer to her late mother, Carrie Fisher, and grandmother, Debbie Reynolds. The actress, who has followed in her family’s footsteps with roles in Scream Queens and American Horror Story, has spoken about the therapeutic benefits of playing a character that pays tribute to her iconic relatives. By channeling her family’s legacy on screen, Lourd has found a sense of connection to Fisher and Reynolds, who both left an indelible mark on the entertainment industry.

Billie Lourd, the talented actress and daughter of iconic Star Wars actress Carrie Fisher, has opened up about how working on The Last Showgirl made her feel closer to her late mother and grandmother, Debbie Reynolds. The film, a tribute to the golden age of Hollywood and its legendary performers, provided Lourd with a unique opportunity to reflect on her family’s legacy in the entertainment industry. As both Fisher and Reynolds left an indelible mark on Hollywood, The Last Showgirl allowed Lourd to connect with the rich history that her mother and grandmother were a part of, deepening her bond with them in a profound way.

Honoring a Family Legacy

Billie Lourd comes from a lineage of strong, successful women in show business. Her grandmother, Debbie Reynolds, was one of the most beloved actresses of Hollywood’s Golden Age, starring in classic films such as Singin’ in the Rain and The Unsinkable Molly Brown. Carrie Fisher, Lourd’s mother, became a pop culture icon through her portrayal of Princess Leia in the Star Wars franchise.

In The Last Showgirl, Lourd plays a character who embodies the old-world charm and talent that defined her grandmother’s generation. The movie’s themes and setting allowed her to channel the experiences of both Reynolds and Fisher, reminding her of the timeless nature of their work. Lourd mentioned in interviews that the role was emotionally charged for her, as it brought up memories of growing up in the shadow of two larger-than-life women.

“It’s like I’m stepping into their shoes,” Lourd shared. “I feel like my mom and grandma are with me every step of the way while filming this movie. It’s been an incredibly emotional and fulfilling experience.”

The Emotional Journey of The Last Showgirl

The Last Showgirl tells the story of a young woman trying to make a name for herself in the competitive world of entertainment while honoring her family’s legacy. Billie Lourd’s connection to this storyline is deeply personal, as she, too, has navigated the challenges of carrying on her family’s illustrious legacy.

For Lourd, the film provided an opportunity to work through her grief over the loss of both her mother and grandmother, who passed away within a day of each other in December 2016. “I feel like this project came to me at the right time,” Lourd said. “It’s allowed me to process my feelings in a way that I hadn’t before. Being on set, in costumes that echo the style of my grandma’s era, made me feel like I was bridging the past and the present.”

The film not only served as a creative outlet but also as a healing experience for Lourd. “There were moments on set where I felt like I was channeling my mom and grandma,” she explained. “It’s something I never thought I’d feel, but this film has allowed me to tap into their spirits in a way that feels incredibly special.”

Following in the Footsteps of Legends

Despite the pressures of living up to the legacies of Carrie Fisher and Debbie Reynolds, Billie Lourd has established herself as a formidable talent in her own right. With roles in American Horror Story, Scream Queens, and the Star Wars sequel trilogy, she has proven her versatility as an actress. Yet, The Last Showgirl marks a significant moment in her career, as it allowed her to honor her mother and grandmother in a meaningful way.

“People always talk about how much I look like my mom, or how I have my grandma’s smile, but this film made me realize that I carry their spirit in my work,” Lourd shared. “I can feel them in everything I do, especially with a project like The Last Showgirl that hits so close to home.”

Hollywood’s Enduring Family Dynasties

The entertainment world has seen several family dynasties, and the Fisher-Reynolds family is certainly one of its most memorable. Debbie Reynolds, who was known for her effervescent charm, and Carrie Fisher, whose wit and wisdom made her a beloved figure, left a lasting impact on the industry. Now, Billie Lourd continues that legacy with her own unique contributions to film and television.

In many ways, Lourd’s work on The Last Showgirl is symbolic of how Hollywood continues to be shaped by family dynasties. It also reflects how the next generation can reinterpret and honor the past while forging their own path. Lourd’s performance in the film is being hailed as one that does justice to her family’s legacy while also showcasing her talents as an individual.

Conclusion

Billie Lourd’s work on The Last Showgirl is not only a testament to her acting abilities but also a tribute to her family’s enduring influence on Hollywood. By stepping into a role that allowed her to reflect on her mother Carrie Fisher’s and grandmother Debbie Reynolds’ legacies, Lourd has found a deeper connection to her roots. This film, laden with emotional significance, is an important milestone in her career, offering both a personal and professional journey that brings her closer to the iconic women who came before her.

As Billie Lourd continues to make her mark in Hollywood, The Last Showgirl serves as a reminder of the power of legacy, family, and the timeless nature of great storytelling.

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