Mr Viral
The Academy Museum Gala’s homage to three Hollywood icons brought the best of cinema and fashion to the red carpet in Los Angeles on Saturday night. Now in its fourth year, the fundraiser–co-chaired in part by Salma Hayek Pinault, Nicole Kidman, Eva Longoria, and Tyler Perry–raised over $11 million for the Academy Museum of Motion Pictures to support its filmmaking exhibitions and local community initiatives.
Honoring Rita Moreno, Paul Mescal, and Quentin Tarantino for their contributions to film, the gala’s highly coveted guestlist included Amy Adams, Kylie Jenner and Netflix chief Ted Sarandos.
Longoria kicked off the evening’s programming, introducing Director and President of the Academy Museum, Amy Homma, who welcomed the guests and introduced the first presenter of the night, three-time Oscar-winning director Steven Spielberg who presented the Icon Award to EGOT legend Moreno.
After the dinner service, Colman Domingo returned guests to their seats by introducing the next presenter, four-time Oscar-nominee Saoirse Ronan, who presented friend and recent co-star, Oscar-nominated actor Mescal with the Vantage Award.
The Luminary Award was presented to Tarentino by Pulp Fiction star John Travolta. During his acceptance speech, Tarantino announced the donation of his first handwritten draft of the script, which won an Oscar in 1995 for best original screenplay, to the museum.
Before the night was over, Ariana Grande closed out the evening with a heartfelt introduction to co-star Cynthia Erivo, who treated guests to a surprise musical performance, singing “I’m Here” from The Color Purple, Diana Ross’s “Home” from The Wiz (1978)” “Somewhere Over The Rainbow” from The Wizard of Oz (1939), and Prince’s “Purple Rain.” After every song, Grande stood up to cheer her fellow co-star in the upcoming Wicked musical.
There were so many stars and notable guests, it was a challenge to keep anyone in their seats. From Pamela Anderson to Demi Moore to the cast of Emilia Pérez, everyone mingled between tables to catch up after a busy fall festival season. At the end of the night, guests made their way downstairs to their cars and limos, excited to be a part of a night that celebrates cinema. The gala was presented in partnership with Rolex.
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