What Happened To The ‘Baywatch’ Bombshell, Erika Eleniak, Who Looked ‘Gross’ And ‘Completely Different’ Last Year – Jaw-dropping Photos
Erika Eleniak captivated millions as the gorgeous lifeguard Shauni McClain in “Baywatch,” embodying the epitome of ‘90s beach glamour. However, recent photos of the former bombshell have sparked conversations about her startling transformation.
Erika Eleniak’s rise to fame began in the early ’80s when she appeared in Steven Spielberg’s classic, “E.T. the Extra-Terrestrial.” But it was her role on “Baywatch” that cemented her status as a pop culture icon, with her sun-kissed hair and red swimsuit becoming symbols of the hit show.
Erika Eleniak, circa 1999. | Source: Getty Images
However, life beyond the glitz of Hollywood proved to be full of unexpected turns. From leaving “Baywatch” to pursue film roles to embracing motherhood and facing personal losses, Eleniak’s journey was far from easy.
Recently, fans were left stunned when photos surfaced showing just how much the once-beloved actress has changed. See the actress’s jaw-dropping transformation that left social media users saying she looked unrecognizable.
From ‘E.T.’ to ‘Baywatch’ Bombshell
Erika Eleniak, born on September 29, 1969, in Glendale, California, started her acting journey at just ten years old. She appeared in numerous television shows, films, commercials, and theater productions, showing early promise as a young actress.
Her breakout role came in 1982 when she starred in Steven Spielberg’s sci-fi classic, “E.T. the Extra-Terrestrial.” The film, now considered one of Hollywood’s most iconic, was a pivotal moment for Eleniak, though her experience on set wasn’t entirely smooth.
“One thing that really stands out to me was that there was a little trauma because of that kiss. It was super frightening. I cried in my little trailer,” she recalled, describing how Spielberg had to reassure her.
The famous director took the time to explain to Eleniak and her mother what a closed set was, making the young star feel more at ease. She also shared that Henry Thomas, who played Elliott, wasn’t thrilled about the scene either.
However, despite the awkward moments, Eleniak remembered Spielberg as a “fun, big kid” who loved to keep his young cast entertained.
Erika Eleniak at the premiere of “Surviving the Game” on April 13, 1994, in Hollywood, California. | Source: Getty Images
Eleniak’s career took a major turn in 1989 when she starred in the TV movie “Baywatch: Panic at Malibu Pier,” where she played Shauni McClain. The character would later catapult her to fame when “Baywatch” transitioned into a television series that same year.
Reflecting on the audition process, Eleniak said, “I felt like I auditioned six times. There were a lot of hoops to jump in to get through.” Though the show became synonymous with sun, sand, and lifeguards, filming wasn’t always the paradise it appeared to be.
Eleniak recalled that their first shoots took place in January, the coldest time of the year, and the cast had to endure harsh conditions to create the illusion of warm, sunny California weather. “I remember running in the water on the coldest day of the year. Our lips were so blue that we couldn’t use the footage,” the actress revealed.
The cast was sprayed with water to make them look sweaty, even when the wind was freezing. But despite the discomfort, she cherished the bonds formed on set, likening the cast and crew to a big, supportive family.
Contrary to popular belief, Eleniak insisted that there was no rivalry among the actresses during her time on “Baywatch.” “None of that. Everyone was really sweet,” she explained.
Erika Eleniak and the cast of “Baywatch.” | Source: Getty Images
A Shift in Eleniak’s Career and Personal Life
As “Baywatch” grew in popularity, new characters and storylines were introduced, often taking the show in a more provocative direction. Eleniak, who had been a staple of the series since its inception, decided it was time to move on and left the show in 1992.
Reflecting on her departure, Eleniak explained that the network had initially been conservative in its approach. “There were certain things you didn’t show, you didn’t say. Things have changed a lot since then,” she shared.
Billy Warlock and Erika Eleniak at the premiere of “Under Siege” on October 8, 1992, in Westwood, California. | Source: Getty Images
The actress noted that the shift towards a racier tone contributed to the show’s massive appeal but was not aligned with her personal comfort. “I felt like it was a different show and no, I was not comfortable. It definitely wasn’t my thing to be super risqué,” she admitted.
Although Eleniak understood the demands of her role, including saving lives in skimpy swimsuits, she often found herself at odds with the show’s creators about what they deemed sexy.
Erika Eleniak at the premiere of “Love Stinks” on August 11, 1999, in Westwood, California. | Source: Getty Images
Despite the challenges, Eleniak insisted that her primary motivation for leaving was her passion for film. “My heart was in films, and it was calling,” the blonde actress added.
Eager to explore a broader range of roles, she left “Baywatch” behind and immediately jumped into film work. Shortly after her departure, Eleniak landed a role alongside Steven Seagal, Gary Busey, and Tommy Lee Jones in the 1992 action thriller “Under Siege.”
Filming proved to be an intense experience, but one that Eleniak embraced. “We shot for three months in Mobile, Alabama. And it was a tough shoot,” she recalled.
Surrounded by a predominantly male crew of 1,800, Eleniak found herself in a challenging but educational environment. “I learned a lot on that shoot watching Tommy Lee Jones and Gary Busey work. […] It was an incredible learning experience for me,” she said.
Erika Eleniak filming “Chasers,” circa 1994. | Source: Getty Images
As Eleniak moved on, Pamela Anderson stepped into her “Baywatch” role, bringing her own distinct presence to the show. Eleniak graciously acknowledged Anderson’s impact during a 2021 podcast appearance, stating that nobody did it better than Anderson.
Beyond her professional pursuits, Eleniak also experienced significant moments in her personal life. She became a mother, welcoming a daughter who frequently appeared in her social media posts.
The actress took to Instagram to celebrate her daughter in honor of National Daughter’s Day in 2023 and 2024, sweetly writing in part, “I have to honor the best woman I know, my Indy. Never met a better human or a more DIVINE person to be around.”
Sadly, 2021 brought sorrowful times as Eleniak faced the heartbreaking losses of both her mother and stepfather in quick succession. “She’s my best friend. She’s my… literally my best friend,” the actress said of her late mom.
Eleniak’s Transformation – A New Look for the ‘Baywatch’ Bombshell
Once known for her role as the blonde, beach-ready Shauni McClain in “Baywatch,” Eleniak looks vastly different today. In the iconic red swimsuit, Eleniak embodied the quintessential lifeguard, her golden curls and toned physique symbolizing the glamour of the ’90s.
Erika Eleniak at the “Baywatch” SlowMo Marathon on April 22, 2017, in Los Angeles, California. | Source: Getty Images
However, recent photos reveal a dramatic transformation that left some social media users in disbelief. The actress now sports a more laid-back style, often seen in casual attire, with minimal makeup.
The actress once celebrated for her fresh-faced beauty, now embraces a heavily tattooed look, showcasing full-sleeve tattoos on both arms.
Eleniak shared that her interest in body art began in her late twenties, but the intricate sleeve work is a more recent development.
Erika Eleniak seen in Los Angeles, California, on August 7, 2024. | Source: Getty Images
“Most of my sleeve work is probably within five years. It’s been a work in progress over the years of starting and stopping, so not really consecutive,” she explained.
Eleniak has also hinted at having more tattoos, suggesting ongoing plans to extend her ink onto her back. In the future, she might look even more different than she does now, as she continues to expand her body art.
Erika Eleniak during an emotional Instagram post. | Source: Instagram/officialerikaeleniak
The transformation extends beyond her tattoos; Eleniak appears visibly older, a natural change that has sparked widespread discussion on social media.
Erika Eleniak is seen in Los Angeles, California, on August 7, 2024 | Source: Getty Images
Fans were quick to express their surprise at how much she has changed, with many noting that she looks completely different from her time as a ’90s bombshell.
“I would not recognize her on the street,” one person commented in part. Another person shared, “I can’t believe it. She looks completely different.”
Erika Eleniak is seen in Los Angeles, California, on August 7, 2024 | Source: Getty Images
A third added, “Tattoos look terrible when they are old. Terrible.” A fourth person said, “YIKES, not a fan of tattoos. She was a cutie back in the day.” Someone else typed, “So unrecognizable.”
Erika Eleniak’s journey from the sun-soaked beaches of “Baywatch” to her present-day reflects the ever-changing nature of fame, personal growth, and resilience.
Erika Eleniak is seen in Los Angeles, California, on August 7, 2024 | Source: Getty Images
From iconic lifeguard to tattooed mother, her story serves as a reminder that behind every familiar face lies a complex and evolving individual.