Cher Reflects on the Potential of Burlesque Amid On-Set Challenges
Cher in ‘Burlesque’.
Credit:
De Line/Kobal/Shutterstock
Key Points
- Cher discussed the challenges of producing the 2010 film Burlesque
- She remarked it could have been a “really good, fun movie” without the on-set drama
- Dax Shepard revealed that tensions arose from two individuals involved in the production
Cher, now 79, reflected on the tumultuous production of 2010’s Burlesque during an episode of Armchair Expert on January 5, hosted by Dax Shepard, who was joined by his wife and Cher’s co-star, Kristen Bell.
In the film, Cher portrayed Tess Scali, the club owner, while Bell played Nikki, one of the club’s featured performers. Christina Aguilera took on the role of Ali, an aspiring entertainer.
When asked by Shepard about her excitement upon being cast, Bell, 45, noted, “I was very excited because it was Cher, Christina Aguilera.”
Cher acknowledged the film’s potential, stating, “It could have been a really good fun movie except for you-know-who. Except for both of them.” The duo clarified that their comments did not implicate any cast members.
Cher (left) and Christina Aguilera in ‘Burlesque’.
De Line/Kobal/Shutterstock
Bell characterized the filming experience as difficult, citing “a lot of drama” on set. Shepard, then dating Bell, suggested that “a romantic relationship happening for people that were very high above” contributed to the turmoil, a claim Cher confirmed.
Cher indicated that other internal conflicts impacted the production, mentioning, “There was another thing that I cannot mention, but I can’t mention it.” She also claimed a higher-up sought to cut her song “You Haven’t Seen the Last of Me” from the film, voicing his reluctance to have her “ruin” the movie. Bell expressed ignorance regarding this incident.
Reflecting on the chaos, Bell shared her coping mechanism, stating, “The way I get through dramatic or chaotic situations is to find someone to hold hands with in the corner and just laugh at everything.” Cher noted her fondness for co-star Stanley Tucci, with Shepard quipping, “Every woman loves Stanley.”
Steven Antin (left) and Clint Culpepper on the set of ‘Burlesque’.
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While Cher, Bell, and Shepard refrained from naming the individuals responsible for the tension, a November 2010 report from The Hollywood Reporter alleged that conflicts arose between director Steven Antin and Screen Gems president Clint Culpepper, a couple linked to the film’s production. Sources claimed their disagreements were significant.
Antin later characterized the intense atmosphere of filming, describing it as “a total f—— nightmare,” while expressing that it was also a “dream come true.” He described his relationship with Culpepper as “complicated.”
Kristen Bell in ‘Burlesque’.
De Line/Kobal/Shutterstock
Cher praised Bell, stating they “got along so well” during filming and that she respected her talent. “I didn’t know who she was, but you know, she was good,” Cher affirmed.
When asked by Shepard if she was aware of the celebrity persona she brings to new projects, Cher responded, “It just doesn’t mean anything. I’m a woman who’s always worked and that’s who I am and I’m successful. But I don’t buy that other stuff.”
Ultimately, Burlesque grossed over $90 million and received mixed reviews. Cher’s song “You Haven’t Seen the Last of Me” has become a highlight of her performances, and the film has inspired numerous memes, including the viral “Wagon Wheel Watusi.” A stage adaptation of the film is scheduled to debut in London’s West End in 2025.
