For those who couldn’t attend the 95th Academy Awards Ceremony, a fortunate few may have instead received an invite to a tradition that has been running since 1992. Every year, Elton John has held an Academy Awards viewing party, which is almost every bit the spectacle as the red carpet affair itself.
The viewing party also serves a second purpose - proceeds from the special evenings have directly supported the Elton John AIDS Foundation’s global partners to challenge stigma and discrimination and provide compassionate treatment for vulnerable communities impacted by HIV and AIDS. Plus for those who feel slighted by being snubbed by the Academy board, it’s a pretty solid consolation prize.
The event was hosted by Eric McCormack and Golden Globe Award-winning actress Michaela Jaé Rodriguez at an undisclosed West Hollywood, California venue, with the likes of Heidi Klum and Donatella Versace amongst the names who attended the event. The evening also saw entertainment from British-Japanese pop star Rina Sawayama ahead of the start of the ceremony held at the Dolby Theatre.
Rumour has it that sometimes celebrities who head over to the 2023 Vanity Fair after-party have also been known to grace Elton John’s event also, which has since its inception made over $9 million USD for his foundation. It has, alongside the Vanity Fair party, become one of the hot-ticket items across the awards season to attend, having permeated popular culture by being referenced in a number of television shows - including Entourage and Absolutely Fabulous.
PeopleWorld brings together a glimpse inside the star-studded fundraiser, bringing together some familiar faces - especially if you’re a fan of The White Lotus season 2, which clearly Elton John seems to be a fan of.