Quincy Jones tribute/ Governors Awards 2024/ Bond producers honored/ Richard Curtis Jean Hersholt award/ Newslooks/ LOS ANGELES/ J. Mansour/ Morning Edition/ Hollywood’s biggest names gathered for the Governors Awards to celebrate Quincy Jones, Bond producers Barbara Broccoli and Michael G. Wilson, filmmaker Richard Curtis, and casting director Juliet Taylor. Despite Quincy Jones’ recent passing, the evening honored his lasting legacy through music, with heartfelt tributes from Rashida Jones and a performance by Jennifer Hudson.
Hollywood Honors Quincy Jones and Other Icons at Star-Studded Governors Awards
Key Highlights:
- Quincy Jones Tribute: Emotional speeches by Rashida Jones and a powerful performance by Jennifer Hudson.
- Bond Producers Recognized: Barbara Broccoli and Michael G. Wilson received the prestigious Irving G. Thalberg Memorial Award.
- Richard Curtis Honored: Celebrated for both his romantic comedies and humanitarian efforts.
- Casting Director Juliet Taylor: Received recognition ahead of a new competitive Oscar category for casting directors in 2025.
Hollywood Gathers to Celebrate Quincy Jones, Honorary Oscar Recipients
Deep Look
A Night of Tributes
The Governors Awards on Sunday night became a celebration of legacy, artistry, and love as Hollywood paid tribute to legends in the industry. The event was especially poignant following the recent passing of Quincy Jones, who was slated to receive his second honorary Oscar.
Jones’ family attended to honor his legacy, with daughter Rashida Jones delivering a speech he had been preparing. She reflected on her father’s unparalleled influence on music and culture.
“His music has defined an entire century of culture,” she said. “And he lived every moment connecting with people in the most authentic way.”
Jennifer Hudson delivered a stirring musical performance as part of the tribute, leaving many in tears.
The Bond Legacy
Barbara Broccoli and Michael G. Wilson, the stewards of the James Bond franchise, were presented with the Irving G. Thalberg Memorial Award. Actor Daniel Craig, who portrayed Bond in five films, offered warm praise for the siblings.
“These are the most expensive independent films ever made,” Craig joked, underscoring the producers’ commitment to quality.
The Bond franchise’s impact spans decades, and Broccoli reminded the audience of the importance of producers in maintaining creative integrity.
Laughter and Humanity with Richard Curtis
Hugh Grant provided comedic relief while presenting the Jean Hersholt Humanitarian Award to his longtime collaborator, Richard Curtis. Known for writing and directing beloved films like Curtis was honored not only for his cinematic contributions but also for his philanthropic work.
“Would we call it an Oscar? It’s a kind of Oscar,” Grant quipped.
Curtis used his speech to advocate for a small portion of film budgets to fund “impact producers,” emphasizing the need for greater social responsibility in the film industry.
Juliet Taylor’s Groundbreaking Honor
Casting director Juliet Taylor, whose career spans classics such as Annie Hall and Schindler’s List, received an honorary Oscar, marking a pivotal moment for her field. Taylor expressed her excitement not only for her award but for the upcoming competitive Oscar category for casting directors, which will debut in 2025.
Nicole Kidman, who presented the award, celebrated Taylor’s unique ability to recognize talent and shape cinematic history.
A Room Full of Stars
The Ray Dolby Ballroom was a constellation of Hollywood’s brightest stars. Tom Hanks, Angelina Jolie, Jennifer Lawrence, and Jeremy Strong were among the luminaries in attendance. The event, free from the constraints of televised broadcasts, allowed attendees to focus on heartfelt tributes and meaningful connections.
Quincy Jones’ Love-Filled Legacy
The evening concluded with an emotional tribute to Quincy Jones, described by Rashida Jones as a man who imbued love into every note of his music.
“There’s an entire universe in his seven decades of music,” she said, inviting the audience to delve into his lesser-known works. “While you listen, hear him. His real legacy was love.”
