Cher, the music legend, opened up in January 2026 about the problems that turned the filming of “Burlesque” in 2010 into a troubled experience. In an interview on the “Armchair Expert” podcast, hosted by Dax Shepard and featuring her co-star Kristen Bell, the 79-year-old artist revealed that conflicts between people “way above” in production hindered the musical’s potential. The fact gains relevance now, in 2026, because the film, which was a moderate box office success, became a cult phenomenon full of memes and even gained a stage adaptation in London last year.
Cher was straightforward in stating that the project “could have been a very good and fun film,” however, excessive drama behind the cameras changed that course. Meanwhile, Kristen Bell, who played the dancer Nikki, confirmed it was a difficult production, recalling “a lot of drama” on set. The artists, however, decided not to name those responsible publicly, maintaining a mystery that has lasted 16 years but continues to fuel fans’ curiosity.
What Really Happened Behind the Scenes?
Although names were protected during the interview, Dax Shepard gave a crucial clue. He revealed that a romantic relationship between high-ranking figures in production unfolded dramatically and frequently during filming, affecting the entire environment. Cher added another problem she could not detail but mentioned that an executive threatened to cut her song “You Haven’t Seen the Last of Me” from the film, claiming it “would ruin the movie.” Despite all the chaos, Cher and Bell highlighted the good rapport between themselves and with actor Stanley Tucci, forming an alliance to face the situation with humor.
Reports from the time, such as one from The Hollywood Reporter in 2010, already pointed to tensions between director Steven Antin and then Screen Gems president Clint Culpepper – a couple in real life. Sources described the couple’s conflicts on set as “jaw-dropping,” which corroborates the current revelations. Thus, the new statements provide context to old rumors and show that, even with a million-dollar budget and a stellar cast including Christina Aguilera, the production was an emotional rollercoaster.
Thus, “Burlesque” survived the turmoil and built its legacy. The film grossed just over 90 million dollars globally, and Cher’s song became an anthem. Additionally, iconic scenes like the “Wagon Wheel Watusi” went viral on the internet, ensuring the musical remains relevant to new generations. Therefore, Cher’s confessions in 2026 are not just a vent but a new chapter in the history of a film that, despite the hardships, won its place in the audience’s heart.
