Ricki Lake Unveils ‘Hairspray’ Polaroid Memory
Digital copy of 1987 Hairspray set Polaroid emerges as Ricki Lake recalls lost treasure!

Image: Instagram
Ricki Lake, a long-time television personality and icon in entertainment, took to Instagram this Mother’s Day with a striking flashback. In her post, she expressed gratitude for a digital copy of her original Polaroid captured on the set of Hairspray in Baltimore back in 1987. The digital version is particularly significant since the hard copy was lost in the destructive Palisades Fire. The post, punctuated with hashtags like #johnwaters, #divine, and #tracyturnblad, connects her personal history with the unforgettable era of cult cinema that continues to resonate with fans.
A Glimpse Into A Bygone Era
Ricki Lake’s post transports followers back to the late 1980s when Hairspray, the film directed by the legendary John Waters, was making waves. The movie, known for its exuberant blend of music, dance, and social commentary, featured characters that have since become icons. In her caption, Lake highlights the sentimental value of the Polaroid—a tangible memory that once documented the vibrant atmosphere on set. With the loss of the original hard copy due to the Palisades Fire, the digital version now stands as a precious memento of that era.
Remembering The Magic Of Hairspray
On set in Baltimore, the Hairspray production captured a unique blend of glamour and raw energy. The image, now revived in digital form, serves as a reminder of how behind every cinematic moment lies a story filled with passion, spontaneity, and sometimes even heartbreak. Lake’s nod to her colleagues and the creative legends of the film—John Waters, Divine, and the character Tracy Turnblad—adds another layer of tribute to the memory. For fans of both the film and Ricki Lake’s storied career, this gesture is a heartfelt look back at a time when art, risk, and joy intersected on set.
A Personal Touch On A Special Day
Coinciding with Mother’s Day, Lake’s post carries an extra layer of warmth and reflection. The simple yet evocative caption not only serves as a tribute to her past but also resonates on a personal level. Throughout her career, Ricki Lake has been celebrated for her authenticity and her ability to connect with audiences across generations. Her digital share of this lost Polaroid reinforces how personal history and public moments can intertwine, telling a story that is both intimate and widely relatable.
From Loss To Legacy
While the Palisades Fire claimed more than just a piece of paper, it inadvertently preserved a legacy—one that is now carried in digital format. This event serves as a reminder of how memories can be fragile and yet, through modern technology, are afforded a second life. Lake’s post has sparked conversations among her followers, many of whom reminisce about the golden days of film history, the pioneering spirit of John Waters, and the cult status of characters like Divine and Tracy Turnblad.
Connecting With Fans And Past Moments
Ricki Lake’s Instagram presence over the years has been punctuated by other nostalgic moments. Fans recall memories of her engaging throwback posts, including candid behind-the-scenes glimpses from the set of her iconic talk show. For instance, a previous post celebrated the 1000th episode of The Ricki Lake Show—a milestone that resonated with viewers who grew up watching her work. These moments, like the digital Polaroid, serve to remind everyone that even in the fast-paced realm of current media, a touch of the past can still strike a deep chord.
A Moment Of Reflection And Gratitude
As the digital copy of her Polaroid circulates online, fans are invited to appreciate not just the image but the stories behind it. Ricki Lake’s heartfelt tribute on Mother’s Day opens a window into the past—a past rich with artistry, collaboration, and inadvertently, loss. Yet from that loss springs a renewed appreciation for the memories that shape an individual’s path. Lake’s story encourages everyone to hold close the tangible moments that define our history and to celebrate them, even if only in digital form.
The post is more than a nostalgic look back; it is a reminder of the impermanence of physical objects and the enduring power of digital preservation. For Ricki Lake, and indeed for many who cherish cultural icons, this digital Polaroid is a symbol of an era that continues to inspire and influence both art and personal narratives.
In sharing this digital relic, Ricki Lake not only honors a treasured memory from the Hairspray set but also inspires her audience to reflect on their own histories. The merging of personal sentiment with an iconic piece of film history creates a resonant moment that bridges the gap between past and present, echoing the timeless nature of true artistic expression.

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