Spike Lee poses for photographers upon arrival at the amfAR Cinema Against AIDS benefit at the Hotel du Cap-Eden-Roc, during the 78th Cannes International Film Festival, South France, May 22, 2025. (AP Photo)
The amfAR Gala once again dazzled on the French Riviera, blending celebrity glamour with a heartfelt mission. Held at the iconic Hotel Du Cap-Eden-Roc in Antibes, this year’s gala saw A-listers, artists, and philanthropists rally to support AIDS research in unforgettable style.
A Star-Studded Night with Sky-High Stakes
The event unfolded alongside the Cannes Film Festival, drawing an eclectic mix of stars. Adrien Brody, James Franco, Michelle Rodriguez, Colman Domingo, Spike Lee, Heidi Klum, Jeff Bezos, and Lauren Sanchez all lit up the gala with their presence.
In true Hollywood fashion, the auction offered once-in-a-lifetime experiences and rare collectibles. A Dodge Charger from Fast X, auctioned by Rodriguez, roared its way to 475,000 euros. Meanwhile, pear-shaped yellow diamond earrings by Chopard fetched 400,000 euros.
From Art to Courtside Dreams
Art lovers weren’t left behind. Adrien Brody’s painting sold for 375,000 euros — lunch with the actor included. James Franco’s artwork raised 325,000 euros, also with a lunch date promised. However, the crown jewel was a George Condo painting dated May 2025, which sold for a staggering 1.15 million euros.
Spike Lee electrified the crowd with a surprise offer. He auctioned a walk-on role in his next film. Midway through bidding, he added courtside tickets beside him at a Knicks game. That move pushed the lot's value to 400,000 euros.
Adrien Brody & Georgina Chapman at the amfAR Cinema Against AIDS benefit at the Hotel du Cap-Eden-Roc, during the 78th Cannes International Film Festival, South France, May 22, 2025. (AP Photo)
Music, Models, and Movie Magic
The evening’s soundtrack was as glamorous as its guest list. Ciara kicked off the show, followed by powerful performances from Adam Lambert and rock legends Duran Duran. Guests left their tables, dancing to hits like “Notorious” and “A View to a Kill.”
Fashion took center stage with a Bond-inspired runway show. Curated by Carine Roitfeld, 27 models turned the dining room into a stylish catwalk. They waved to familiar faces and stopped for selfies as they strutted past. The collection sold as one lot for 450,000 euros.
A Legacy of Impact – amfAR, Aids Research
Behind the glitter lies a serious cause. amfAR, The Foundation for AIDS Research, has been at the forefront of the fight against HIV/AIDS since 1985. It has raised nearly $950 million globally, funding over 3,800 research grants.
Veteran journalist Louise Dixon, who’s covered the gala for more than a decade, recalled standout moments from past auctions. Among them: a soccer match with David Beckham, an intimate Andrea Bocelli concert at his home, and lunch with Robert De Niro. Together, these experiences have brought in over 2 million euros.
A Night That Sparkled With Purpose
More than just a glamorous evening, the amfAR Gala proved once again that star power, art, and fashion can fuel meaningful change. And in this fusion of fame and philanthropy, the night truly belonged to hope.
