LeAnn Rimes says ‘Coyote Ugly’ ended ‘America’s Sweetheart’ era in a candid reflection on her career transformation. The singer, who skyrocketed to fame at just 13 with her hit “Blue,” was only 17 when she filmed her iconic cameo in the 2000 musical drama. That moment changed everything.
The Scene That Changed Everything
LeAnn Rimes says ‘Coyote Ugly’ ended ‘America’s Sweetheart’ era with one unforgettable performance. In the film’s finale, she appeared clad in a low-cut, backless crop top and snakeskin leather pants. She performed a duet of “Can’t Fight the Moonlight” alongside lead actress Piper Perabo while dancing on the bar counter.
During a Wednesday appearance on “Good Morning America,” the now-43-year-old recalled how that moment marked a major turning point. “That was kind of my introduction to sexiness and sex sells,” she said. “Put me on a bar and then it was all over.”
The film became a massive box office hit, grossing $113 million worldwide. It later achieved cult classic status. “Can’t Fight the Moonlight,” written by Diane Warren, reached No. 11 on the Billboard Hot 100 and became an international phenomenon.
Behind the Scenes: Chicken Cutlets and All
LeAnn Rimes says ‘Coyote Ugly’ ended ‘America’s Sweetheart’ era, but the behind-the-scenes memories are just as entertaining. In a 2018 interview with Entertainment Tonight, she revealed the most shocking part of filming her cameo.
“The chicken cutlets that they had me put in my top. There you go,” she joked. “I’m 17. My mom was very happy that was the only bar I was dancing on. That she knew of. Thanks, Mom.”
She continued: “They [said] you’re gonna dance on a bar and they’re like, ‘Here’s your outfit. Here’s your chicken cutlets.’ I mean, literally, I’m like, ‘What do I do with these? How do I put these in?’ I had no idea. That’s what I remember.”
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The Song’s Surprising Journey
Can’t Fight the Moonlight” had an unexpected path to success. Rimes shared her thoughts on the song after including a new rendition on her 2018 EP “Re-Imagined.”
“Oh my God. What’s so about the song was it became an international success. It was number one in 11 countries,” she said. nothing in the States. It came back around almost two years later and then was a top 20 hit in the States.”
She added, “I don’t know, it’s weird how the universe works. Weird how things come back around. I never expected it. You just never know what’s gonna hit. It really is how successful this was.”
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A Lasting Legacy
LeAnn Rimes says ‘Coyote Ugly’ ended ‘America’s Sweetheart’ era. However, the film and its music continue to resonate deeply with fans even 26 years later. Furthermore, her willingness to embrace a more mature image opened countless doors. Consequently, it showcased her remarkable versatility as an evolving artist.
Moreover, the “9-1-1 Nashville” cast’s recent recreation proves the movie’s enduring appeal. As a result, a whole new generation is discovering the film through streaming platforms. Therefore, Rimes remains intimately connected to this pivotal moment in her career. Ultimately, her iconic bar scene lives on forever.
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From teenage country sensation to confident performer dancing on a bar, Rimes has navigated her evolution with grace and humor. The chicken cutlets may have been confusing at 17, but the result became an unforgettable piece of pop culture history.
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Source Information:
This article is based on LeAnn Rimes’ appearance on “Good Morning America” (February 2026), her Instagram post from Feb. 20, 2026, and previous interviews with Entertainment Tonight (2018).
Follow LeAnn Rimes: Instagram @leannrimes
Watch the interview: Good Morning America
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