Selma Blair Reflects on the New ‘Cruel Intentions’ TV Show and Celebrates Women’s Power at Variety’s 2024 Power of Women Event

In an exciting revelation, Selma Blair recently shared her thoughts on the upcoming Cruel Intentions TV series, a new adaptation set to captivate a new generation of fans. With this beloved classic poised to return, Blair’s insights and the honouring of powerful women in Hollywood marked a memorable occasion at the 2024 Variety Power of Women event.

Selma Blair: Reflections on the Legacy of Cruel Intentions

Blair, best known for her role as Cecile in the 1999 film, was thrilled to discuss the upcoming Cruel Intentions TV show. When asked about her feelings on this reimagined series, she offered a piece of advice to the young cast who will bring the iconic story to a new audience. “Just enjoy it!” she expressed with a knowing smile, suggesting that the journey of exploring such intricate characters is as rewarding as the final product.

The reboot, produced by Prime Video, aims to capture the essence of the original while providing a fresh perspective. Blair’s passion and nostalgia for the film were evident as she reflected on how the original Cruel Intentions resonated with audiences and set a benchmark for bold, edgy storytelling in the 90s.

Career Reflection: Is This the End of an Era?

There has been speculation regarding Blair’s future in front of the camera, with rumours circulating that she might be stepping back from acting. When asked about this, she hinted that she is indeed considering a transition, though not definitively leaving the screen. “It depends,” Blair stated. Currently, she is developing a new project with Apple TV, drawing from her experiences in the entertainment industry during the early 50s. Although Blair won’t appear in this series, it reflects her continued passion for storytelling.

For fans, the thought of Selma Blair leaving the screen is bittersweet. While they might miss her presence on TV, Blair remains open to future roles, suggesting this might not be the last we see of her. “Never say never,” she added, keeping the door slightly ajar for potential returns.

Honouring Women’s Achievements: A Star-Studded Evening

The event was filled with memorable moments, with a powerful lineup of awardees and heartwarming reunions. Actress Sarah Hyland received the first Courage Award for her advocacy work supporting survivors of domestic abuse. Her former Modern Family co-star, Julie Bowen, presented the award, showcasing the strong bond they share beyond the screen. Bowen praised Hyland as a “mentor, mother, sister, and fun aunt,” expressing admiration for her resilience and strength.

In addition to Blair and Hyland, the star-studded event included appearances by Amy Adams, Sanaa Lathan, and Amy Poehler, who honoured Hollywood veterans and rising stars alike. The theme of the evening centred around compassion, empathy, and the power of community — values that resonate deeply within the entertainment industry.

A Modern Family Reunion

For fans of Modern Family, the event also offered a nostalgic moment as Julie Bowen, Jesse Tyler Ferguson, and Sarah Hyland were all present. Their mini-reunion was a heartwarming sight, reminding audiences of the strong connections formed on set. Hyland’s tribute to Bowen underscored the real-life support and friendship that has endured even after the series concluded.

Bowen, in turn, celebrated Hyland’s resilience and dedication to advocating for domestic abuse survivors. The evening exemplified how these stars continue to support and uplift each other, reflecting the close-knit relationships that extend beyond Hollywood’s cameras.

Adam Sandler, Nostalgia, and New Beginnings

The event wasn’t only about awards but also served as a reunion platform for Adam Sandler and other familiar faces. Sandler, who recently reprised his role as Happy Gilmore, talked about revisiting the character for a special anniversary. Describing the experience as both fun and surreal, he mentioned how the cast list for the project had “coded names” to keep appearances a surprise. In true Sandler fashion, he kept the humour flowing, playfully recalling how he has grown into his signature baggy shorts, now resembling a “girl dad” who embraces fatherhood with pride.

Fashion, Glamour, and Empathy

Hollywood’s leading ladies dazzled on the red carpet, bringing their unique style to the evening. From Caitlin Olsen and Brenda Song to the ever-elegant Kate Beckinsale, the attendees impressed with outfits that embodied grace and strength. Beckinsale’s Christian Siriano gown was a showstopper, accentuating her elegance and poise.

Amidst the glamour, the event’s message remained clear: it was a celebration of compassion, empathy, and the transformative power of community. Actress Leslie Jones, the evening’s host, praised the honourees for using their platforms to drive positive change, underscoring the importance of female representation in both personal and professional spheres.

Looking Ahead: A New Chapter for Cruel Intentions and Empowered Women

With the excitement surrounding Cruel Intentions, this era of remakes and reboots speaks to a broader trend in Hollywood. Blair’s optimism and encouragement to the new cast of the Cruel Intentions series highlights how classic narratives can evolve while staying true to their roots. This blend of nostalgia and new energy captures the essence of Blair’s legacy, providing a fitting bridge between the past and the future.

At the core, Variety’s Power of Women event symbolises the progress made by women in the entertainment industry and their growing influence in shaping narratives. Whether through advocacy, mentorship, or groundbreaking roles, these women continue to inspire audiences worldwide.