Pamela Anderson couldn’t hide her smile at the 51st Deauville American Film Festival one day after slamming reports her relationship with Liam Neeson is a PR stunt.
Anderson, 58, wore a black collared top and matching midiskirt with black pumps as she posed for photos at the Promenade des Planches in Deauville, France, on Saturday, September 6. She accessorized the chic ensemble with black sunglasses and simple stud earrings, beaming from ear to ear in front of the cameras.
The outing came 24 hours after Anderson took the stage at the 51st Deauville American Film Festival to accept the Deauville Talent Award with an impassioned speech on Friday, September 5.
“I do not and will never feed into PR stunts,” she told eventgoers. “That would be a death sentence. I’m authentically driven. I’m superstitious when it comes to love. And I’m not comfortable sharing any shred of my romantic life.”
Anderson continued, “I know I’ll fall in love again and again on screen. That is my job. If we do it well, you will feel it, a kind of projection. It is the greatest compliment. So please think positive. And I appreciate your good wishes. There are no silly games being played. I’m sincere.”
The comments were seemingly in reference to her relationship with Neeson, 73, which blossomed while they were working together on The Naked Gun. After their PDA-filled press tour, reports swirled that their romance was meant to generate publicity for the movie. However, an insider close to the situation told Us Weekly last month that “everything between Pamela and Liam has been genuine.”
Further in her speech on Friday night, Anderson said, “Do not mistake my kindness for weakness or my boldness for bitterness. I’m here on this journey, not for money or for fame, but to see what I’m made of in truth, hard work and to leave behind an honest legacy my family can be proud of.”
The Baywatch alum also reflected on the big night in a post shared via Instagram featuring photos of her in a black strapless gown on the red carpet and on stage.
“Thank you to The Deauville Film Festival for this tremendous honor—I will remember you 🤍,” she captioned the carousel of photos.
Fans were quick to praise Anderson for standing her ground in her speech and hitting back at critics.
One fan wrote, “@pamelaanderson Your speech was the most inspiring and you were glowing!! Congratulations 😍🔥,” while another said, “How are you just absolutely crushing it every single time!! Beautiful and classic! Congrats on all your achievements ❤️❤️❤️❤️❤️❤️.”
Anderson’s youngest son, Dylan, 27, also left a sweet comment underneath the post, writing, “So proud!! Crushing it. Love you!! ❤️.” (Anderson shares sons Dylan and Brandon, 29, with ex-husband Tommy Lee.)