Antibes, France – May 26, 2023 – The annual amfAR Gala Cannes once again took the world by storm, as stars from across the entertainment and fashion industries gathered at the exquisite Hôtel du Cap-Eden-Roc to support the vital work of amfAR, The Foundation for AIDS Research. With an impressive lineup of performers, A-list attendees, and a spectacular fashion show, the event raised a staggering $17 million for HIV/AIDS research programs.
An Evening of Star-Studded Glamour
Grammy Award-winning and Academy Award-nominated artist, actress, producer, and entrepreneur Queen Latifah played the role of a gracious host for the evening. Dressed in their finest black-tie attire, the guests included Hollywood icons such as Leonardo DiCaprio, Eva Longoria, James Marsden, Rebel Wilson, and Orlando Bloom, to name just a few. The event’s star-studded guest list was a testament to the continued importance of the fight against HIV/AIDS.
Unforgettable Performances
The night was filled with unforgettable performances that left the audience in awe. The queen of soul, Gladys Knight, set the stage on fire with renditions of her classics, “The Best Thing That Ever Happened to Me” and “Midnight Train to Georgia.” Adam Lambert kept the energy high with his renditions of “Ordinary World” and a touching tribute to Tina Turner with “Who Wants to Live Forever.”
Bebe Rexha had the audience grooving to her hits “In the Name of Love” and “I’m Good (Blue),” while Halsey closed the gala on a high note with four of her chart-topping songs. The performances not only entertained but also underscored the importance of supporting amfAR’s mission.
A Night of Generosity
One of the highlights of the evening was the live auction, led by the charismatic auctioneer Simon de Pury. Guests enthusiastically bid on one-of-a-kind luxury items and contemporary art, raising substantial funds for amfAR’s research initiatives. Notable auction items included a one-of-a-kind Launch Edition DB12 Aston Martin, which fetched an astounding 1.5 million euros, and a stunning Damien Hirst portrait of Leonardo DiCaprio, which sold for 1.2 million euros.
Fashion with a Purpose
Adding an extra layer of glamour to the evening was the Icons Collection fashion show, curated by amfAR supporter Carine Roitfeld. The fashion show featured exclusive looks from some of the world’s most renowned fashion houses, including Tom Ford, Versace, Chanel, and Prada, all accessorized by Chopard. Top models graced the runway, making it a night to remember for fashion enthusiasts.
Generous Sponsors and Partners
The event’s presenting sponsors, Aston Martin and Red Sea International Film Festival, played a crucial role in supporting the gala’s success. Signature sponsors, including Chopard and M·A·C COSMETICS, added to the evening’s elegance. Revolve Group, Inc., in association with The h.wood Group, hosted the after-party, and various other brands, including RUMOR Rosé and Clase Azul, contributed to the night’s festivities.
A Legacy of Impact
amfAR Gala Cannes has a remarkable history of fundraising success, raising over $264 million for AIDS research over the years. This impressive achievement has allowed amfAR to make substantial investments in HIV/AIDS research, bringing us closer to finding a cure for this devastating disease.
In conclusion, the amfAR Gala Cannes 2023 was not just a night of glitz and glamour but also a powerful demonstration of the entertainment industry’s commitment to fighting HIV/AIDS. With record-breaking fundraising, mesmerizing performances, and a star-studded guest list, the event solidified its status as a beacon of hope in the quest for an AIDS-free future.
