Erika Eleniak was a sensation as the gorgeous lifeguard Shauni McClain on “Baywatch,” capturing the essence of ‘90s beach glamour. Recently, however, photos showing her dramatic change have sparked a lot of buzz.
Eleniak began her rise to fame in the early ’80s with a role in Steven Spielberg’s beloved film, “E.T. the Extra-Terrestrial.” But it was her part in “Baywatch” that truly made her a pop culture icon, with her sunlit hair and iconic red swimsuit becoming symbols of the show.
Life after Hollywood wasn’t always easy for Erika Eleniak. After leaving “Baywatch” to explore other film roles, she took on the challenges of motherhood and dealt with personal losses.
Recently, new photos of Eleniak have left fans stunned. Her dramatic transformation has caught the attention of social media, with many saying she looks almost unrecognizable.
#1. From ‘E.T.’ to ‘Baywatch’ Bombshell
Erika Eleniak, born on September 29, 1969, in Glendale, California, began her acting career at just ten years old. She appeared in a variety of television shows, films, commercials, and theater productions, showing early promise.
Her big break came in 1982 with a role in Steven Spielberg’s sci-fi classic, “E.T. the Extra-Terrestrial.” The film, now a Hollywood landmark, was a significant moment for Eleniak, though her experience on set had its challenges.
Eleniak recalls feeling traumatized by a kiss scene in the film, saying, “It was super frightening. I cried in my little trailer.” Spielberg had to reassure her and explain what a closed set meant, which helped her feel more comfortable. She also mentioned that Henry Thomas, who played Elliott, wasn’t thrilled about the scene either.
Despite these awkward moments, Eleniak fondly remembers Spielberg as a “fun, big kid” who enjoyed keeping his young cast entertained.
Eleniak’s career took a significant turn in 1989 when she starred in the TV movie “Baywatch: Panic at Malibu Pier” as Shauni McClain. This role paved the way for her rise to fame as “Baywatch” transitioned into a television series that same year.
Reflecting on her audition process, Eleniak admitted, “I felt like I auditioned six times. There were a lot of hoops to jump through.” Despite the show’s sunny, beachside image, the reality of filming was often quite different.
Eleniak recalled that their initial shoots took place in January, the coldest time of year. The cast had to brave harsh conditions to create the illusion of warm 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,” she said.
To make the cast look sweaty, they were sprayed with water even when it was freezing outside. Despite these challenges, Eleniak valued the strong sense of camaraderie on set, describing the cast and crew as a supportive family.
Contrary to what some might think, Eleniak noted there was no rivalry among the actresses. “None of that. Everyone was really sweet,” she explained.
#2. A Shift in Eleniak’s Career and Personal Life
As “Baywatch” gained popularity, it began incorporating new characters and storylines, often taking the show in a more provocative direction. Having been a key part of the series since its beginning, Eleniak decided to leave the show in 1992.
Looking back on her departure, Eleniak noted the network’s initial conservative stance. “There were certain things you didn’t show, you didn’t say. Things have changed a lot since then,” she reflected.
Eleniak observed that the show’s shift toward a racier tone played a part in its growing popularity, but it didn’t sit well with her personal comfort level. “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.
While she understood the role’s demands, including saving lives while wearing revealing swimsuits, she often disagreed with the show’s creators over what was considered sexy.
Eleniak left Baywatch to pursue her love for film. “My heart was in films, and it was calling,” she said. She quickly got a role in the 1992 action movie Under Siege with Steven Seagal and Tommy Lee Jones.
Filming was challenging but a great learning experience for her. “It was incredible,” she shared.
Pamela Anderson took over her role on Baywatch, and Eleniak praised her impact. In her personal life, Eleniak often celebrated her daughter on National Daughter’s Day, calling her the “best woman” she knows. Sadly, in 2021, she lost her mother and stepfather, calling her mother her “best friend.”
#3. Eleniak’s Transformation – A New Look for the ‘Baywatch’ Bombshell
Once famous for her role as the blonde, beach-ready Shauni McClain on Baywatch, Eleniak looked very different in her iconic red swimsuit. Her golden curls and toned physique were the epitome of ’90s glamour.
Erika Eleniak at the Baywatch SlowMo Marathon on April 22, 2017, in Los Angeles, California. | Source: Getty Images
Today, Eleniak’s look has changed dramatically, surprising many social media users. She now prefers a more relaxed style, often wearing casual clothes and minimal makeup.
Previously known for her fresh-faced beauty, Eleniak now sports full-sleeve tattoos on both arms. She began exploring body art in her late twenties, but the detailed sleeve tattoos are a more recent addition.
“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.
The transformation extends beyond her tattoos; Eleniak appears visibly older, a natural change that has sparked widespread discussion on social media.
Fans were quick to react to her dramatic change, many remarking on how different she looks from her ’90s bombshell days.
“I would not recognize her on the street,” one person commented. Another added, “I can’t believe it. She looks completely different.”
A third commenter noted, “Tattoos look terrible when they are old. Terrible.” Another added, “YIKES, not a fan of tattoos. She was a cutie back in the day.” Someone else said, “So unrecognizable.”
Eleniak’s transition from the sun-soaked beaches of Baywatch to her current look highlights the evolving nature of fame, personal growth, and resilience.
From iconic lifeguard to tattooed mother, her story reminds us that behind every well-known face is a complex and ever-evolving individual.
