Look To The Stars News: American Foundation for AIDS Research

Sarah Jessica Parker To Host amfAR New York Gala

Thu, 02 Feb 2012 14:45:00 +0000

Hublot, the luxury Swiss brand which brings the “Art of Fusion” to watchmaking, is proud to present the amfAR New York Gala on February 8, 2012 honoring those who have led the global struggle against HIV/AIDS.

The black-tie benefit, which will be hosted by Sarah Jessica Parker, will feature special performances by Janelle Monáe and Theophilus London.

“We are excited to again join forces with amfAR in the fight against HIV/AIDS”, says Hublot chairman Jean-Claude Biver. “Our first amfAR men’s collection was very well received and we hope that these new women’s designs will bring us one step further in accomplishing the goal of a world without HIV/AIDS”.

Celebrities Come Together Over Kenneth Cole's New AIDS Ribbon Design

Mon, 07 Nov 2011 13:45:00 +0000

Fashion designer and Chairman of amfAR, Kenneth Cole, has partnered with the MTV Staying Alive Foundation and amfAR on the reinterpretation of the iconic AIDS ribbon.

Designed to commemorate the discovery of the virus 30 years ago, and to ignite a new wave of awareness about the pandemic with the next generation, the new AIDS ribbon features a double loop and symbolizes the coming together of individuals and the re-doubling of efforts in the fight against HIV and AIDS.

Stars Honor Elizabeth Taylor At Inspiration Gala

Tue, 01 Nov 2011 13:00:00 +0000

Last week’s amfAR Inspiration Gala in LA – “A Celebration of Men’s Style” – welcomed some of the biggest stars and honored the late Dame Elizabeth Taylor, who helped created amfAR in 1985.

Alek Wek, Reca Group’s Paolo Diacci and Colin Farrell

Stars To Attend amfAR Inspiration Gala In Los Angeles

Tue, 25 Oct 2011 13:45:00 +0000

The American Foundation for AIDS Research (amfAR) will host its Inspiration Gala Los Angeles on Thursday, October 27, and will have plenty of celebrity support.

Hosted by Andy Cohen – and with performances by Sinead O’Connor and Deborah Harry – the fantastic evening will include a special tribute to Elizabeth Taylor presented by Sandra Bullock. Guests expected include Chelsea Handler, Kevin Huvane and Kenneth Cole.

amfAR launched the Inspiration series in 2010 with events in New York, Paris, and Los Angeles. Last year, the LA event was hosted by Kylie Minogue and featured performances by Courtney Love and Dita Von Teese, as well as fashion presentations by Dsquared2 and Jean-Paul Gaultier. This year’s Inspiration Galas in New York, Sao Paulo, and Paris have featured Fergie, James Franco, Jennifer Hudson, Marc Jacobs, Ke$ha, Heidi Klum, Michael Kors and Liza Minnelli.

Heidi Klum Attends Celebrity Charity Gala In Milan

Mon, 26 Sep 2011 14:05:00 +0000

Heidi Klum, Bar Rafaeli and Eva Herzigova were among the stars at amfAR Milano on Friday, the American Foundation for AIDS Research’s third annual benefit held in conjunction with Milan Fashion Week.

With special performances by Rufus Wainwright and Raphael Saadiq, and an appearance by amfAR Chairman Kenneth Cole, the event took place at La Permanente, and featured cocktails and dinner, as well as amfAR’s famed live auction of unique luxury items, conducted by guest auctioneer Simon de Pury.

Through the years, the Italian fashion community has been exemplary in its support of amfAR, with fashion houses and designers underwriting and leading many of the Foundation’s most successful fundraising efforts. Since amfAR’s first international benefit, held in 1993 during the Cannes Film Festival and hosted by amfAR Founding International Chairman Dame Elizabeth Taylor, the Foundation’s international galas in Cannes, Venice, Rome, and Dubai have become some of the most high-profile and eagerly anticipated charity events in the world and have helped raise more than $70 million for critical AIDS research programs.

Richard Gere Takes Pilgrim To Korea For Charity

Thu, 23 Jun 2011 15:30:00 +0000

Richard Gere is in Korea to support an exhibition of his photos in Seoul raising money for charities involved with the Tibetan human rights campaign.

The exhibition – titled Pilgrim – features around 60 images the actor took in Tibet and around Asia, as well as images taken by photographers interested in the cause. The collection has already toured 20 cities in 11 countries, and is in Korea until July 24.

“A lot of these photographs I didn’t show anyone because it’s such a private experience for me,” Gere told press during his six day visit to Korea. "I had no interest really in sharing them. [Taking photos] is very similar to making a movie; you’re somehow compressing lives into frame.

Liza Minnelli And Jennifer Hudson To Sing At Celebrity Charity Gala

Mon, 13 Jun 2011 15:30:00 +0000

The American Foundation for AIDS Research (amfAR) will pay tribute to actor James Franco and designer Michael Kors at its second annual Inspiration Gala New York on June 14th at the Museum of Modern Art.

Franco will receive the Piaget Award of Inspiration for his humanitarian work and contributions to men’s style, while Kors will receive the amfAR Award of Courage for his stellar leadership in the fight against AIDS. Performances will include Liza Minnelli and Jennifer Hudson.

Larry Boland, President of Piaget North America, stated “We are thrilled to continue our partnership with amfAR, and we are especially proud to honor James Franco, one of Hollywood’s most inspiring actors, with the Piaget Award of Inspiration for his commitment to the fight against AIDS.”

Elizabeth Taylor To Be Honored By Women In Film

Sun, 05 Jun 2011 13:00:00 +0000

Women In Film has announced that film and television actress Melissa McCarthy will host this year’s Crystal + Lucy Awards on Thursday, June 16 evening, in the Beverly Hilton International Ballroom.

Making the announcement, Women In Film President, Cathy Schulman said, “This year, WIF is highlighting the impact women make on the media. Having laughed at Melissa’s years of trend setting and zeitgeist performances, topped by the wonderful ‘Megan’ in Bridesmaids, we’re thrilled to have Melissa hosting our event. We’re bound to have an unforgettable night.”

Celebrity Guests To Hit Cannes For AIDS Charity

Wed, 18 May 2011 15:30:00 +0000

The annual amfAR Cinema Against AIDS Gala will hit Cannes tomorrow, May 19, with some very special guests.

Janet Jackson, Brooke Shields, Gwen Stefani, Michelle Yeoh, Milla Jovovich and Patrick Dempsey are expected to be among the guests during the event at the 64th annual Cannes International Film Festival. Other event chairs include amfAR Chairman Kenneth Cole, amfAR Global Fundraising Chair Sharon Stone, Karl Lagerfeld and Donatella Versace.

The annual star-studded event at the Hotel Du Cap-Eden-Roc in Antibes, France, will include a formal dinner and a world-renowned live auction, all to benefit amfAR, The Foundation for AIDS Research. As in previous years, Harvey Weinstein will recruit talent from the room to help with the live auction.

Kenneth Cole Helps Launch Charity Watch For amfAR

Tue, 17 May 2011 13:00:00 +0000

On Wednesday night, May 11th, while celebrating the opening of Hublot’s Madison Avenue Flagship, Hublot CEO Mr. Jean Claude Biver and amFAR founder Dr. Mathilde Krim unveiled the Big Bang Black Magic amfAR watch, a limited edition 100-piece design celebrating amFAR’s 25th anniversary, created to support the global struggle against HIV/AIDS.

Jean-Claude Biver, Paula Zahn, Dr. Mathilde Krim, Kenneth Cole, Kevin Frost

Celebrity Guests Announced For Charity Cannes Gala

Fri, 22 Apr 2011 15:00:00 +0000

Janet Jackson, Brooke Shields, Gwen Stefani, Freida Pinto, Michelle Yeoh, Milla Jovovich, Patrick Dempsey and Harvey Weinstein are among those who will travel to Cannes to raise funds for AIDS research at amfAR’s annual Cinema Against AIDS gala, to be held on May 19 during the 64th annual Cannes International Film Festival.

Other event chairs include amfAR Chairman Kenneth Cole, amfAR Global Fundraising Chair Sharon Stone, Milutin Gatsby, Caroline Gruosi-Scheufele, Ryan Kavanaugh, Karl Lagerfeld, Michel Litvak, Vincent Roberti, Carine Roitfeld and Donatella Versace.

Jennifer Hudson To Perform At amfAR Inspiration Gala In Brazil

Fri, 22 Apr 2011 11:30:00 +0000

Jennifer Hudson will perform at amfAR’s special Inspiration Gala in Sao Paulo, Brazil, on April 28.

Inspiration, a new amfAR event series produced by Josh Wood Productions, is a celebration of style benefiting the Foundation’s innovative AIDS research programs. Held at the home of Felipe Diniz, The Inspiration Gala//Sao Paulo will feature a cocktail reception, gala dinner, award presentation, special entertainment, and live auction. Guests are encouraged to dress inspired by the theme.

The event will honor Francisco Costa, Women’s Creative Director at Calvin Klein, with special guests such as Claire Danes, Alessandra Ambrosio, Alice Braga, Isabeli Fontana and Astrid Munox attending.

Janet Jackson To Host Celebrity Charity Life Ball

Mon, 04 Apr 2011 20:00:00 +0000

Janet Jackson will host this year’s amfAR Life Ball in Vienna.

Life Ball is the world’s most extravagant HIV and AIDS benefit held annually in the beautiful historical city of Vienna, Austria. Life Ball combines the great Viennese Ball tradition with glamorous, outlandish performances and inspirational speeches. Life Ball has always provided an opportunity to speak out against ignorance and prejudice and celebrate diversity. Organized by AIDS LIFE, Life Ball has raised more than $20 million during the past 18 years for HIV/AIDS projects worldwide through partnerships with amfAR, the William J. Clinton Foundation, the Elton John AIDS Foundation, and UNAIDS. Through the Life Ball, AIDS LIFE has been a major supporter of amfAR’s TREAT Asia Pediatric HIV/AIDS Initiative.

Since accepting a volunteer position with amfAR, Janet Jackson has travelled internationally on behalf of the foundation. At each of her numerous public appearances, she has worked tirelessly to heighten awareness of HIV/AIDS as a threat to social and economic stability and to underscore the urgent need for continued AIDS research.

Elizabeth Taylor's Charity Legacy

Wed, 23 Mar 2011 18:55:00 +0000

Hollywood legend Elizabeth Taylor – who passed away on Wednesday at the age of 79 – will be remembered off-camera for her philanthropy, her spirit and her unceasing generosity.

The Oscar-winning actress was an activist for those with AIDS since the virus first appeared in the early 1980s, courting controversy by her support in the face of the stigma attached to AIDS at the time. She was one of the first celebrities to publicly stand up against the disease, fundraising for the first major AIDS benefit ever held – a dinner organized by AIDS Project Los Angeles.

She founded the National AIDS Research Foundation in the early 1980s, and in 1985 she helped found the American Foundation for AIDS Research – better known as amfAR. In February 2011, amfAR honored Taylor at its 25th Anniversary Gala. Although her health prevented her from attending, she sent a message via her good friend and fellow AIDS activist Elton John: “I am there in spirit and I join you in saluting my fellow honorees and all these extraordinary leaders. I am inspired by their example, exhilarated by their vision, and encouraged by their compassion and love. And I love them in return.”

Elizabeth Taylor And Bill Clinton Honored For Charity Work

Mon, 14 Feb 2011 12:00:00 +0000

Elizabeth Taylor, Bill Clinton and Diane von Furstenberg were honored by the American Foundation for AIDS Research (amfAR) last Wednesday.

The black-tie benefit marked amfAR’s 25th year, and featured a special reunion performance of “That’s What Friends Are For” by all of the original artists: Sir Elton John, Gladys Knight, Dionne Warwick and Stevie Wonder. Also in recognition of amfAR’s 25 years, special tributes were made to the Foundation’s co-founders, Mathilde Krim, Ph.D and Dame Elizabeth Taylor. The evening was presented by Hublot, and co-sponsored by M*A*C Viva Glam. More than $1.5 million was raised for AIDS research.

President Bill Clinton, Diane von Furstenberg, and Dame Elizabeth Taylor were each presented with the amfAR Award of Courage for outstanding leadership and distinguished service in furthering amfAR’s mission, and for playing a vital role in increasing AIDS awareness and accelerating the pace of HIV/AIDS research. Ms. von Furstenberg was presented with her award by her husband, Barry Diller. Chelsea Clinton presented the award to her father. Sir Elton John delivered a personal message from Dame Elizabeth Taylor, who could not be in attendance, stating “I am there in spirit and I join you in saluting my fellow honorees and all these extraordinary leaders. I am inspired by their example, exhilarated by their vision, and encouraged by their compassion and love. And I love them in return.” Sir Elton accepted the award on her behalf.

PokerStars and amfAR Hold Celebrity Tournament

Mon, 17 Jan 2011 14:01:00 +0000

For the second year in a row, amfAR joined forces with PokerStars to host a special charity poker tournament to help raise funds for AIDS research.

A total of 58 players competed last Thursday, including celebrities such as ‘Austin Powers’ star Verne Troyer, former NBA basketball star John Salley, former LA Dodgers pitchers Chad Billingsley and Orel Hershiser, pro golfer Sergio Garcia, TV personality Ricki Lake, ‘Entourage’ star Kevin Dillon, 2008 Playmate of the Year Nicole Jayde and Spanish football legend Poli Rincon.

Macy Gray to Perform at Autism Benefit

Tue, 21 Sep 2010 14:03:00 +0000

American R&B and soul singer-songwriter, Macy Gray is a proud supporter of the Center for Autism and Related Disorders (CARD), and as such, she will help celebrate CARD’s 20 year anniversary with an exclusive mini-concert at their Gala.

The Center for Autism and Related Disorders, Inc. (CARD), which strives to provide effective treatment to children with autism around the world, will celebrate in style on September 25 in Los Angeles with a gala benefit to include a cocktail hour, a silent auction, a seated dinner with performance by Grammy-Award Winner Macy Gray, and a post dinner party with live entertainment with DJ Crash.

Members of the gala committee include: Annette O’Toole, Antonio Sabato, Jr., Camryn Manheim, the Dixie Chicks, Joe Mantegna, Leeza Gibbons, Howie Mandel, Jane Kaczmarek, Kelsey Grammer and Lou Diamond Phillips, among others. 

Kylie Minogue To Host amfAR Charity Gala In LA

Thu, 16 Sep 2010 12:30:00 +0000

Kylie Minogue will host the Los Angeles Inspiration Gala for the American Foundation for AIDS Research (amfAR) on October 27.

Beginning in 2010 in New York, Paris, and Los Angeles, the Inspiration Gala series has grown to include events in multiple cities and will feature a different design “Inspiration” each year.

The design inspiration for 2010 is “Black Tie//Black Leather.” Each of the major designers who are participating will donate a piece inspired by the “Black Tie//Black Leather” theme to be presented in a runway show. The designers’ items will then be auctioned off, with proceeds benefiting amfAR. The evening will also include a formal dinner with a special award presentation. Guests are encouraged to dress inspired by the theme.

Kylie Minogue Hosts Charity Inspiration In Paris

Mon, 28 Jun 2010 15:00:00 +0000

Kylie Minogue was in Paris on Friday to host amfAR’s Inspiration Night.

The celebration of men’s fashion honored Jean-Paul Gaultier, and featured an auction that raised US$180,000 for AIDS Research. Items that went under the hammer included a dress owned by Kylie and much more.

The event was the latest in a series entitled Inspiration. Beginning in 2010 in New York, Paris, and Los Angeles, the Inspiration series will grow to include events in multiple cities and will feature a different design “Inspiration” each year. The design inspiration and theme for 2010 is “Black Tie//Black Leather.”

Kylie Minogue To Host Charity Gala To Honor Ricky Martin

Wed, 02 Jun 2010 15:00:00 +0000

amfAR, The American Foundation for AIDS Research, will launch the Inspiration Galas – a series of fundraising events celebrating all aspects of men’s style – this week. The series, produced by Josh Wood Productions, will take place in New York, Paris, and Los Angeles.

   Kylie Minogue, the international pop star and style icon who is preparing to release her eleventh studio album, will host the inaugural Inspiration Gala at the New York Public Library on Thursday, June 3, 2010.

“I’m honored to join the list of prestigious designers as the host of amfAR’s inaugural Inspiration Gala at the historical New York Public Library and to help raise awareness and funds for AIDS research,” she said.

Dennis Hopper's Charity Legacy

Sun, 30 May 2010 20:15:00 +0000

Hollywood legend Dennis Hopper passed away on Saturday, May 29, leaving behind a legacy seldom matched by actors.

After starting out in films such as Rebel Without a Cause and the classic Easy Rider, Hopper went on to gain two Golden Globe and two Academy Award nominations in his career and won the hearts of film critics for his intense and gritty performances.

And although he enjoyed a level of anonymity in his charity work, Hopper was often spotted lending his support to causes he believed in. Charities he supported included Bono’s (RED), for which he attended the massive Valentine’s Day charity art auction in 2008. He played poker for a variety of causes – including the Center For American Progress – and was a regular at amfAR’s Cinema Against AIDS events in Cannes. It was at Cannes that he was honored by the Maybach Foundation for his charity work.

Stars Align For Cinema Against AIDS In Cannes

Mon, 24 May 2010 14:30:00 +0000

Last week’s amfAR Cinema Against AIDS gala at Cannes has raised $6.7 million for charity.

Hosted by Alan Cumming and headlined by Mary J. Blige, the event attracted stars such as Russell Crowe, Chris Tucker, Jennifer Lopez, Patti Smith, Naomi Watts, Paris Hilton, Giorgio Armani, Naomi Campbell, Mick Jagger, Karl Lagerfeld and many more.

Ten luxury items went under the auctioneer’s hammer at the dinner event, with the opportunity to spend a day with Bill Clinton raising the most money – $220,000. A flight on a fighter jet raised $170,000.

Mary J. Blige To Headline Cinema Against AIDS At Cannes

Mon, 17 May 2010 13:30:00 +0000

Mary J. Blige will give a special performance at this year’s seventeenth annual amFAR Cinema Against AIDS event on May 20 at Hotel du Cap-Eden-Roc in France.

Hosted by Alan Cumming, the black-tie event – which features a cocktail reception, dinner and live auction – has become one of the most aniticpated events held during the Cannes Film Festival.

The Cinema Against AIDS event includes many of the celebrities and personalities associated with the film festival, while also attracting familiar faces from the worlds of fashion, music, business, and international society.

Kylie Minogue To Host Charity Inspiration Ball

Wed, 14 Apr 2010 11:30:00 +0000

The American Foundation for AIDS Research (amfAR) has announced Kylie Minogue as host of its Inspiration Ball in June.

The Inspiration Gala, a new amfAR event series produced by Josh Wood Productions, is a celebration of men’s style that will benefit the Foundation’s innovative AIDS research programs.

The event will take place at the New York Public Library in Bryant Park on June 3, and will honor Jean Paul Gaultier. Chairs include Kenneth Cole and Alan Cumming.

Bill Clinton And Whoopi Goldberg To Attend 2010 AIDS Life Ball

Thu, 25 Mar 2010 14:00:00 +0000

Former president Bill Clinton and actress Whoopi Goldberg will be guests of honor at this year’s annual Life Ball for AIDS in Vienna.

Since 1993, world famous personalities and artists have lent their voices and support to Life Ball, giving their time and effort to make the charitable event successful every year. With their appearances, personal impulses and involvement, Sharon Stone, Sir Elton John, Kylie Minogue, Catherine Deneuve, Liza Minnelli, Kim Cattrall, Linda Evangelista, Heidi Klum, Dennis Rodman, Naomi Campbell, Randy Crawford and many more have inspired courage and promoted the joyful aspects of life and given a clear sign against discrimination and ignorance.

This year’s event will take place on July 17, and will coincide with the 18th World AIDS conference in the Austrian city. Clinton will represent the Clinton Foundation, while Goldberg will appear on behalf of amfAR. The Life Ball is organized by Aids Life, an independent non-profit organization, created with the objective to raise money to support people in areas of the world most affected by HIV and AIDS.