Traci Lords Opens Up About Working with Johnny Depp in “Cry-Baby”

Traci Lords, a name synonymous with controversy and intrigue, found herself thrust into the spotlight once again when she starred alongside Johnny Depp in John Waters’s cult classic, “Cry-Baby.”

In her revealing autobiography, “Traci Lords: Underneath It All,” the actress-turned-author delves into the complexities of her experience working with Depp on set and the challenges she faced in navigating their dynamic.

Nervous Beginnings

For Lords, the opportunity to star alongside Depp in “Cry-Baby” was both exhilarating and nerve-wracking.

As a former adult film star transitioning into mainstream cinema, she found herself grappling with insecurities and uncertainties about her place in the industry.

The prospect of working alongside a rising star like Depp only added to her apprehension.

Unsettling Encounters

Lords candidly recalls an incident during filming in which Depp’s playful antics left her feeling uneasy.

In one scene, Depp entered the bedroom set and sat beside Lords in bed, playfully removing the hairband from her ponytail.

While she found his actions charming on the surface, she couldn’t shake the feeling of discomfort that lingered beneath the surface.

The Charisma of Johnny Depp

Despite her reservations, Lords couldn’t deny the magnetic pull of Depp’s charisma and charm.

In her autobiography, she describes him as incredibly attractive and charming, with a sweet smile and gentle demeanor that belied his status as a Hollywood heartthrob.

On set, Depp was portrayed as the consummate professional, dedicated to his craft and fully immersed in his character.

A Cult Classic is Born

“Cry-Baby,” though not a commercial success upon its release, has since achieved cult status among fans of offbeat cinema.

The film’s unique style, quirky humor, and memorable performances, including those of Depp and Lords, have solidified its place in cinematic history.

For Lords, the opportunity to work on such a project provided her with a significant platform to showcase her talent and versatility as an actress.

Rise to Fame

Despite the initial challenges and uncertainties, Lords’s experience working with Depp in “Cry-Baby” marked a pivotal moment in her career.

The film helped propel her into the mainstream spotlight and paved the way for future opportunities outside of the adult film industry.

Today, “Cry-Baby” remains a beloved classic that continues to captivate audiences with its irreverent humor and infectious charm.

Reflections on the Past

As Lords reflects on her time working with Depp and the legacy of “Cry-Baby,” she acknowledges the complexities of their dynamic and the lasting impact of the film on her career.

Despite the challenges they faced on set, she remains grateful for the opportunity to collaborate with such a talented cast and crew.

For Lords, “Cry-Baby” will always hold a special place in her heart as a defining moment in her journey from controversy to acclaim.