Gina Gershon on 'Showgirls,' living in the Valley, standing up to men - Los Angeles Times
Los Angeles Times
March 3, 2026
AI-Generated Deep Dive Summary
Gina Gershon, the actress and performer known for roles in films like *Showgirls* and collaborations with major figures in Hollywood, has released a new book titled *AlphaPussy: How I Survived the Valley and Learned to Love My Boobs*. The book is not strictly a memoir or self-help guide but blends storytelling elements from both genres. It chronicles her unconventional upbringing in the San Fernando Valley during the 1970s, her defiance as a teenager, her rise in the entertainment industry, and her experiences working with big names like Sharon Stone, Paul Verhoeven, and Tom Cruise. The stories are set against the backdrop of the Valley, where Gershon explored rock ‘n’ roll, experimentation, and the challenges of navigating a freewheeling yet often toxic environment.
The book emerged during the COVID-19 lockdowns as a way for Gershon to keep her spirits up after her agent encouraged her to write stories that would cheer him up. These tales, written in no particular order, reflect Gershon’s unique perspective on life and work. She shares insights into standing up to men, particularly the “annoying” ones she encountered in Hollywood,
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Originally published on Los Angeles Times on 3/3/2026