Who did Kim Basinger play in 50 Shades Darker? Actress explains on-screen absence after starring in 2017 film

Kim Basinger had a successful acting career before disappearing from the film industry a few years back. Recently, she expressed her thoughts behind her absence from movies and this significant transition in her profession.

In 2022, Kim disclosed at the Red Table Talk about suffering from agoraphobia. She struggled so much that doing basic activities was challenging. According to a People Magazine report, she shared,

"I wouldn't leave the house. I would no longer go to dinner."

One of Kim Basinger's last famous performances was in 50 Shades Darker. She portrayed the role of Elena Lincoln in the movie starring Dakota Johnson and Jamie Dornan. She is seen as a former lover of Christian Grey, played by Jamie Dornan. She also becomes the lead actor's business partner.

Kim Basinger opened up about her time away from the screen

While many fans may perceive that the actor has retired from acting, the reality is indeed the opposite. According to a Variety report, she often comes across bad scripts. She has become "very picky" while choosing the right one.

In a conversation with Express in 2017, Kim Basinger spoke about Hollywood and how the industry looks upon older actresses. She said:

"Women have always had difficulties in Hollywood, particularly older women."

Talking about her role in 9½ Weeks and how the movie tanked in America, she further added:

"They taught me not to be ashamed of it. I wish that America had more of a European take on life when it comes to ageing."

She also believes that this film helped her to find "some of the most loyal fans in the world."

In the past, Kim has opened up about her battle with anxiety and dealing with agoraphobia. The actor experienced disheartening times due to this disorder and had to stay far from the public and crowded places. She preferred staying at her home most of the time.

According to the People Magazine report, she had to learn to drive again. Recalling those days, she shared:

"I had to relearn to drive, and for many years I would not go through the tunnels at Malibu."

She felt anxious doing any activity or seeing the most normal things in front of her. She explained her condition as:

"Everything used to make me nervous, like the glass to open the door, or, 'Where do I step to open the door?' Everything became a big job to figure out how to do it."