In the early 2000s, Carmen Electra captivated the world with her bold beauty, magnetic presence, and unapologetic embrace of fame. From cult films and red carpets to tabloid covers and cultural obsession, she became an icon of the era—part vixen, part mystery, and always in control of her image.
Now, in conversation with writer Jackie Potter for Elephant Magazine, Electra reflects on the gaze as she’s painted by Moses Hamborg—how it shaped her, how she subverted it, and how she chooses to be seen today. It’s a candid look behind the bombshell: a woman reclaiming her narrative, owning her legacy, and reframing what it means to be watched.
What does the gaze mean to you?
The gaze means to me it’s I would say it’s a look. It’s the way you see someone, sometimes I feel powerful and other times I feel boxed in.
Do you think people now show women in better ways than before?
Yes, I do.I think there’s more space for women to show many different sides of who they are, whether they’re strong, soft, sexy, intelligent. We’re not all the way there yet, but we’re definitely on our way.
Have you ever made people, especially boys, see you in a new way?
I’ve definitely changed the narrative throughout my life, whether it’s you know doing a photo shoot, playing a certain type of role or just me being me in my life.
Is the way women look at things the opposite of the way boys look at things or do you think it’s all in the same?
I believe women are more emotional and connected. So it’s just the flip of a gaze. It’s a little bit deeper.
If you could change the way you looked when you were younger, would you?
No, I wouldn’t change the way I looked when I was younger. I was very insecure and I think a lot of people can relate to that. I had zits on my face, braces, bad hair moments, you name it. It’s really just about embracing yourself and learning how to just become your better self, love yourself. That’s how I became who I am today, in a very humble way. You will never hear me brag about myself or anything like that. That’s just not my style. You know what I mean? That’s not my vibe.
Do you think women’s ideas about looking and being seen are more important today?
100% women look at themselves in a different way. Looks are so in. You know, I think as long as you have boundaries and you do things in a safe way, everything’s okay. You just want to make sure you love yourself from the inside out.
What advice would you give your younger self about how people look at you?
I would say to my younger self not to worry so much. I have a tendency to worry a lot and I realize that worrying gets you nowhere. So just let it go. Let it roll down your back and keep moving forward.
How do you feel when people look at you?
It really truly depends on the day. Sometimes I feel empowered and sometimes I feel overwhelmed. It just depends, but I try to stay grounded and try to stay who I am.
How would you like people to see you?
I would like people to see me as more than just an image. My message has always been love. So, if people could see me, I would love for them to see me as more lovable, passionate, loyal and uh always evolving in many different ways.
