Carmen Electra Credits Keenen Ivory Wayans for Championing Her Scary Movie Role

Carmen Electra opened up about a pivotal moment in her career during the Scary Movie 6 premiere on June 3, crediting director Keenen Ivory Wayans with championing her casting in the franchise's 2000 debut.

The Baywatch actress, who has appeared in the first and fourth installments of the comedy series and made a cameo in the latest film, discussed how Wayans' backing made all the difference when she was competing for the role.

"There's so many movies and so many different genres, and I knew I wanted to be a part of Scary Movie 1. I really wanted it, but I think that back then, they weren't sure that … I know Keenen really wanted me in the movie, but no one else was sure I could do it. And so they had other people come in and shoot for it," the 54-year-old recalled to People.

Despite the hesitation from other parties involved in the production, Wayans remained steadfast in his conviction. "He goes, 'No.' He fought for me. So I love you, Keenen, forever, for pulling for me and changing my career, because being in Scary Movie really did," Electra said.

She also reflected on the significance of the Wayans family's involvement with the franchise. "I was in the first Scary Movie and [Scary Movie 4], and I think we all could feel the difference without the Wayans not being involved in the fourth one," she told the outlet. "So it's just so cool and it gets no better than working with the Wayans. It's always fun. It's a good time."