A night of stars: When cinema, sports, and music collide
A prelude to the Olympics: A night to remember
In the heart of Paris, the Louis Vuitton Foundation recently hosted a dazzling pre-Olympics bash that brought together the worlds of cinema, sports, and music. The event, overseen by industry giants, was a star-studded affair, featuring a red carpet graced by the likes of Mick Jagger, Steven Spielberg, LeBron James, Snoop Dogg, Charlize Theron, and many more. The night was a testament to the power of unity and the magic that happens when different worlds collide.
Jeremy Allen White: Preparing to embody the Boss
As Jeremy Allen White gears up to portray Bruce Springsteen in the upcoming biopic “Deliver Me From Nowhere,” he has been meticulously preparing for the role. White, known for his Emmy-winning performances, has been honing his guitar skills and warming up his voice to capture the essence of the legendary musician.
“I’m trying to have a bit of my own process,” White shared. “I want to understand him deeply, so when I finally meet him, I’ll have the confidence to stand there.”
The much-anticipated meeting between White and Springsteen might happen soon, as they have been in touch via text and email. White expressed his excitement about potentially meeting Springsteen after his performance at London’s Wembley Stadium this Saturday.
Watch the trailer for “Deliver Me From Nowhere”
A night of mingling and music
The event was not just about the glitz and glamour; it was a celebration of unity and collaboration. Celebrities and athletes mingled effortlessly, creating an atmosphere of camaraderie. Zendaya was seen giving Spike Lee a warm embrace, while gold-medalists Aly Raisman, Eileen Gu, and Shaun White strolled by. The night was filled with musical performances by Pharrell Williams and Tyla, keeping the A-list crowd entertained.
Jimmy Akingbola, star of “Bel-Air,” was on a mission to meet LeBron James. “I have to tell him that I live in L.A. too. Can I get some tickets to see you and your son play together, please? I’ll carry your bags. I’ll handle security, I’ll do what it takes!” he exclaimed.
Listen to Pharrell Williams on Spotify
The power of unity
Actor Alan Cumming highlighted the importance of such events in fostering unity. “Nights like this, as ridiculous as it is, can be really positive,” he said. “Unity is important. We should all reach out to those who are different from us, to make everyone feel comfortable so to learn from different disciplines and peoples from all over the world.”
Cumming was also thrilled about the rumored Lady Gaga performance at the opening ceremony. “Oh my God,” he said with visible awe. “Wow. That’s what I say. I might pee my pants!”
Baz Luhrmann and the art of the Olympics
Director Baz Luhrmann shared his excitement for the upcoming opening ceremony. “The very nature of the Olympics is that it’s epic,” he said. “Every opening ceremony is probably the height of both theater and sport brought together. Think of the great Zhang Yimou doing the [2008 Beijing opening]. It’s really a great expression of art and sport and the best that humanity can do when it comes to expression.”
When asked if he would ever consider directing an Olympic opening ceremony, Luhrmann laughed and said, ”Well, I’m not saying it hasn’t happened. They offer, but I’ve got a day job.”
Looking ahead: Los Angeles 2028
Los Angeles Mayor Karen Bass was also in attendance, preparing her city for the Olympic torch in 2028. “Los Angeles still benefits [from the 1984 Summer Olympics],” Bass said. “Now, income inequality is our greatest concern. So we need to encourage attendees to visit all of our ethnic communities and inner-city areas in order to see our cultural richness. That way everybody can financially benefit.”
Bass also touched on the upcoming U.S. election, expressing her excitement about the possibility of having a woman as President. “I feel really good and excited that the United States, in November, is going to catch up with the rest of the world and actually have a woman as the President.”
Spike Lee echoed these sentiments, emphasizing the importance of voter registration and turnout. “First we’ve got to register and then we have to turn out the vote,” he said. “Who thought that we’d ever have a Black president of the United States? Now, we’ve got Kamala right behind.”
A night to remember
The Prelude to the Olympics event was a night of celebration, unity, and anticipation. As the worlds of cinema, sports, and music came together, it was clear that such events have the power to inspire and bring people closer. Whether it’s through the magic of film, the thrill of sports, or the rhythm of music, these moments remind us of the beauty of collaboration and the endless possibilities that lie ahead.