Celebrities Dazzle at Academy Museum Gala
The Academy Museum of Motion Pictures' annual gala not only amassed significant funds but also spotlighted numerous entertainment luminaries. Over the weekend, the gathering generated upwards of $11 million for the museum. Hollywood Reporter notes the event celebrated Paul Mescal, Rita Moreno, and Quentin Tarantino. The night was co-chaired by figures such as Salma Hayek Pinault, Nicole Kidman, Eva Longoria, and Tyler Perry. The affair drew a constellation of stars, including Tom Hanks, Kim Kardashian, Julia Louis-Dreyfus, Mikey Madison, Meg Ryan, Joaquin Phoenix, and Steven Spielberg.
Mescal expressed to THR that being chosen alongside Moreno and Tarantino was "an immense honor." He admitted, "When the invitation arrived, it was unexpected, and I was initially hesitant. I didn't grasp that it was meant for those early in their careers striving to define their professional identity." The "Gladiator II" actor, recipient of the Vantage Award, added, "Understanding its significance made me immensely proud to convey what this profession means to me."
Spielberg, who collaborated with Moreno on the "West Side Story" remake, presented her with the Icon Award. Meanwhile, John Travolta, known for "Pulp Fiction," awarded Tarantino with the Luminary Award.
Fashion played a pivotal role at the gala's fourth iteration. Kardashian flaunted her ensemble on social media. Her post read, "Mugler 🤍🪽+ Tiffany’s 💎 for the Academy Museum Gala," featuring photos of her in a white bustier, matching coat, and exquisite jewelry.
Kardashian's "All’s Fair" co-star Niecy Nash-Betts was highlighted in her gown on the museum’s social media, accompanied by "Wicked" stars Ariana Grande and Cynthia Erivo. The post described them as "two best friends sharing a memorable night at the Academy Museum."
Grande reportedly invited Erivo on stage to perform several songs, including “I’m Here” from "The Color Purple," which earned Erivo a Tony for Best Actress in 2016.
Funds generated from the gala will support exhibitions, educational initiatives, and public programs at the Los Angeles museum, inaugurated in 2021.
