London recently played host to an extraordinary gathering as some of Hollywood’s biggest names converged for the annual Albie Awards. This black-tie, star-studded affair, orchestrated by Amal and George Clooney, serves as a powerful platform to celebrate individuals who have dedicated their lives to advancing global justice.
Marking a significant change in its four-year history, this year’s ceremony was held at London’s iconic Natural History Museum. Over 400 distinguished guests, including luminaries like Meryl Streep, Emma Thompson, and former New Zealand Prime Minister Jacinda Ardern, graced the red carpet. Previously, the prestigious awards took place at the New York Public Library.
George Clooney explained that the move to England was a matter of opportune timing. The couple was already slated to be in Britain, as Amal Clooney was set to unveil a new initiative at Oxford University. This groundbreaking partnership aims to leverage artificial intelligence to bolster access to justice, accountability, and the progression of international law, a venture supported by the Blavatnik School of Government.
Given that the Clooney Foundation for Justice operates on a global scale, Mr. Clooney noted that London provided an ideal backdrop for this important benefit event.
A striking image captured Amal Clooney in an elegant brown gown alongside George Clooney in a classic tuxedo, walking confidently amidst the evening’s grandeur. This visual underscored the event’s shift to London after three successful years in New York.
Observing the notably composed press line, Mr. Clooney humorously remarked on a key difference from its New York counterpart: “England is a little less boisterous.”
True to its reputation, the London Albies maintained the extravagant spirit of previous years. The reception and dinner unfolded as a dazzling gala, featuring captivating performances by musical talents John Legend and Brandi Carlile. Luxury brands Charlotte Tilbury and Versace proudly sponsored the evening.
Attendees witnessed fashion icon Donatella Versace making a grand entrance with stylist IB Kamara, while the soulful voice of John Legend filled the air with his performance.
Beyond the exquisite cocktails, gourmet appetizers, and stunning attire, many guests emphasized that the evening’s significance transcended mere glamour. (Notably, The New York Times’s access was limited to the red carpet only, not the full reception or party.)
Among the celebrated attendees were renowned actresses Meryl Streep and Hannah Waddingham, adding to the evening’s star power. The red carpet also shimmered with the presence of Felicity Jones and Meg Ryan, further enhancing the dazzling display.
The sheer number of celebrity attendees was astounding. Hannah Waddingham, Gayle King, and Meg Ryan shimmered in sequined gowns, joined by entertainers like Graham Norton, Richard E. Grant, and Dominic West. A continuous stream of stars, including Isla Fisher, Stella McCartney, Michaela Jaé Rodriguez, Bianca Jagger, Shailene Woodley, Felicity Jones, and others, captivated onlookers on the red carpet.
Darren Walker, President of the Ford Foundation, articulated the evening’s profound message: “Tonight is about hope and possibility. We must be reminded that a bright future is attainable, and the world is not solely defined by darkness.”
Jacinda Ardern, the former Prime Minister of New Zealand and a returning attendee, echoed this sentiment. She emphasized the importance of acknowledging the often-unsung heroes of justice. “It’s a moment in time to be able to acknowledge the work that often goes on quietly, but is incredibly important,” she stated. “Some of the people being honored tonight, they’ve been working for decades.”
The awards are a tribute to Albie Sachs, the distinguished 90-year-old white South African jurist, author, and anti-apartheid activist. Sachs was the very first recipient of the Albie Award in 2022. Albie Sachs himself was present, pictured with his wife Vanessa, embodying the spirit of the awards that bear his name.
Sachs, who miraculously survived a devastating car bombing in 1988 that cost him his right arm and sight in one eye, reflected on his journey: “It’s almost bizarre, because I spent my life being an iconoclast and now I’ve become an icon.” He added with a smile, “But I can live with the contradiction.”
He also highlighted the unique atmosphere of the Albies, noting its “joyous energy” – a refreshing contrast to many human rights events, which often lack such celebratory spirit.
For many of the celebrity guests, the true allure of the evening lay in honoring the courageous individuals dedicated to justice, rather than the typical red-carpet fanfare.
This year’s distinguished honorees included José Rubén Zamora, a Guatemalan journalist imprisoned for challenging political dissent; Fatou Baldeh, a passionate Gambian women’s rights activist; renowned philanthropist Melinda French Gates; and Martin Baron, the former executive editor of The Washington Post. Additionally, Darren Walker, President of the Ford Foundation, was presented with a lifetime achievement award for his impactful work. Illustrating the diverse group of recipients, photos captured Martin Baron, the respected former editor of The Washington Post, and Fatou Baldeh, the inspiring Gambian women’s rights activist, both of whom were honored for their significant contributions.
Further reinforcing the evening’s message, Darren Walker, president of the Ford Foundation, shared his vision of “hope and possibility,” while Brandi Carlile, who delivered a moving performance, arrived alongside her wife, Catherine Shepherd.
Brandi Carlile, striking a pose in an impeccably tailored tuxedo as one of the last to arrive, expressed her genuine excitement to honor the awardees. She contrasted the Albies with “some pretty self-congratulatory things” she had experienced, emphasizing that celebrating individuals “risking everything is profound.” (A charming aside: she also admitted to eagerly anticipating meeting her celebrity crush, Emma Thompson.)
Among the notable figures, actor Richard E. Grant made an appearance, and a snapshot captured Emma Thompson, Bryan Lourd, and Amal Clooney sharing a moment. The vibrant atmosphere was further enhanced by a group photo featuring Bella Tilbury, Isla Fisher, Charlotte Tilbury, Felicity Jones, Jemma Khan, Laura Bailey, and Michaela Jaé Rodriguez, showcasing the diverse and glamorous guest list.
For journalist Martin Baron, receiving the Albie Award and attending the gala was a significant “statement on behalf of free expression.” He candidly admitted that such glamorous events were not his usual milieu, stating, “I normally don’t hang out with celebrities very much.”
Professional boxer Ramla Ali shared a similar sentiment, expressing her anticipation for encountering so many stars. As a first-time attendee, she declared her intention to break from convention: “If I see someone I love, I am going to go up to them and say, ‘Hey, can we take a picture?’”