JOHN LEGEND ON TRUMP'S TRAVEL BAN: 'HE IS AN ENEMY OF DEMOCRACY'

Celebrities arrived to the Producer's Guild Awards in Beverly Hills, Calif., Saturday (28JAN2017) night as protests sparked around the country in response to President Donald Trump's travel ban.

The executive order bans legal U.S. residents and visaholders from seven Muslim-majority nations from entering the U.S. for at least 90 days.

"We support the protests," said John Legend on the red carpet before the PGA ceremony. "We donated to ACLU today and we are grateful that they were in court in Brooklyn defending the rights of immigrants and refugees to come to this country. And we reject Donald Trump's message of fear and hate and we encourage everybody out there to speak out against it. Call your Congress people, support ACLU, support IRC and all those organizations that are speaking out for immigrants and refugees. And we're going to defeat him. He is an enemy of democracy. He's an enemy of freedom. He's an enemy of inclusion and he's going to lose."

Legend, who participated in the Women's March along with his wife Chrissy Teigen, said he will do whatever he can to help the protesters.

"Chrissy marched in D.C. I marched at Sundance and we're going to do whatever we can to resist his evil regime," he said.

Legend was on hand to support "La La Land," which he appeared in and served as an executive producer on. The retro musical reaped a record-tying 14 Academy Award nominations and was also vying for top honors at the PGAs.

A protest at John F. Kennedy airport, where 12 refugees were detained Saturday, swelled to more than 2,000 people, including some celebrities. Protesters also converged in Newark, New Jersey, Denver, Chicago, Dallas, Seattle, Portland, Oregon, Los Angeles, San Francisco and San Diego.

"Lion" star and Oscar nominee Dev Patel called the travel ban "heartbreaking."

"I mean it's completely heartbreaking to be honest. I just flew in from India yesterday and to arrive to such devastating news of such a divisive nature, it's terrible. It's heartbreaking," he said.

Trump's order immediately suspended a program that last year resettled to the U.S. roughly 85,000 people displaced by war, political oppression, hunger and religious prejudice.

He indefinitely blocked all those fleeing Syria, where a civil war has displaced millions of people, and imposed a 90-day ban on entry to the U.S. from seven Muslim majority nations.

Beverly Hills, Calif., 28 Jan. 2017

1. Wide exterior shot of the Beverly Hilton Hotel

2. Zoom out on Kerry Washington

3. Zoom out on Lily Collins

4. Fashion shot, Teresa Palmer

5. Medium shot of Colin Firth

6. Medium shot of John Legend and Chrissy Teigen

7. SOUNDBITE (English) John Legend, actor/recording artist – on the protests against President Trump's travel ban: "We support the protests. We donated to ACLU today and we are grateful that they were in court in Brooklyn defending the rights of immigrants and refugees to come to this country. And we reject Donald Trump's message of fear and hate and we encourage everybody out there to speak out against it. Call your Congress people, support ACLU, support IRC and all those organizations that are speaking out for immigrants and refugees. And we're going to defeat him. He is an enemy of democracy. He's an enemy of freedom. He's an enemy of inclusion and he's going to lose."

Reporter: "I know you both participated in the women's marches. Do you think you'll participate in these protests?"

John Legend: "Yeah, Chrissy marched in D.C. I marched at Sundance and we're going to do whatever we can to resist his evil regime. Thank you."

8. Medium of Dev Patel Speaking

9. SOUNDBITE (English) Dev Patel, actor: "I mean it's completely heartbreaking to be honest. I just flew in from India yesterday and to arrive to such devastating news of such a divisive nature, it's terrible. It's heartbreaking."

10. Zoom out on Rami Malek

11. Zoom in on Thandie Newton

12. Medium of Common

13. Zoom in on Amanda Peet

14. Zoom in on Sarah Paulson

LEAD IN:

Actually taking home one of the coveted gold statuettes at the Oscars may be a coveted award for the lucky few, but no nominees go home empty handed.

Oscar nominees in the Best Actor/Actress, Best Supporting Actor/Actress and Best Director categories are sent a gift bag worth $150,000 dollars. But now some actors are shunning the Oscar freebies.

STORY-LINE:

Oscar hopefuls can bag a bunch of goodies worth up to $150,000 after the award ceremony.

But the Oscar gifting suite, which was once the place to bag some bling is no longer the place to be seen for many stars.

The reason? Celebrities don't want to be seen holding up just any product when they can be paid for endorsements.

Today the chances of getting a celebrity to show up at a hotel suite so close to Oscar Sunday to try and have them hold the product to get a photo is now almost impossible.

Actors and actresses are paid handsomely for endorsements, and being of nomination calibre - they just don't want to be hounded.

George Blodwell, veteran celebrity stylist says the "oscar suite" does not work in today's social media environment.

He says the smartphone has changed the way that celebrities behave because a photo of a star snapping up some freebies would be taken, posted, and immediately retweeted around the world.

It is unrealistic to imagine that a celebrity will pose with you and a product in today's tech savvy world, says Blodwell.

"You can't really expect a superstar, that everybody knows all over the world, to hold a product up that costs $100 to $200 and have their picture taken with it because these people will use it for publicity. If you're using a star for publicity, it can cost quite a bit of money because the attention the star gives to that product is priceless so they are not coming to these gifting suites as much, because they're expected to hold the product have a picture taken for the people supplying the little gift for them and to be honest it's very tiring and draining and they are not going to do it," says Blodwell.

The gifting suite works at the Grammy's because the stars can pass through while at the awards show, says Blodwell.

But during Oscar week, there are very few gifting suites remaining.

One gifting suite that still keeps going after 19 years is the Roger Neal Beauty and Couture Academy Award Suite, which is located on the penthouse of the Luxe Hotel on Rodeo Drive.

Each year it is put on by veteran talent manager and publicist Roger Neal. It has survived because it has another purpose - charity.

Years ago, Neal transformed his suite into a place for stylists to come to see some new fashion and beauty services.

Some celebrities still come to the suite because of their long standing relationship with the Hollywood veteran - and because of the charity factor.

Neal says his suite has survived because it's not about the gifting as much as it is about the charities.

"It's turned into something that raises money for charity and that's why I get the stars. The stars can afford anything I have to give them, they can afford it but when they come in an autograph something for our charity like Hollygrove this year and it's auctioned off and raises money for the charity - then I'm giving back to the stars as a thank you for coming to my suite so that's why I do it. I don't do it for any other reason but to give back. My suite as a mission to it, that's why I think I'm different and I think that's why we haven't burned out" says Neal.

One man who knows celebrities do not want to be photographed snapping up a freebie in a suite is Lash Fary.

He delivers his gift bags to the homes and offices of celebrities.

Lash Fary of Distinctive Assets has been putting together the "Everyone Wins at the Oscars Gift Bag" for the past 16 years.

This years bag - worth $150,000 US dollars - is a fusion of functional items, edible treats, toiletries, trips and mind enhancements.

It will be delivered on Monday morning to ease those Oscar blues.

This gift bag and swag offering is presented to all the losers in the acting and directing categories, and also the host of the show.

Gifts in the Everyone Wins bag this year include: a luxury Rocky Mountaineer train ride through the Canadian Rockies with 5-star food service ($14,500), French Mediterranean sea salts ($1,500), a three-night stay at resort Villa Armena in Tuscany ($1,500) a "Glamping" adventure trip with private chef and Frette sheets and bike ($12,500), Reset Yourself "lifestyle makeover package" ($14,200), a Wellness gift pack ($1,200) and a custom candy and dessert buffet gift certificate ($800).

Included in the swag is a one year car rental of an Audi A4 car in any city worth $20,000 US dollars.

Russell Lemmer from All-Audi A4 Car Rental Service explains why gift bags help promote his company.

"The Oscar nominees are getting Silvercar for an entire year which is the new airport car rental service. It's really great for them. They travel a lot and they don't want to deal with lines or hassles or irritating upsells so we have eliminated all that. Every car that we offer is a brand new silver Audi A4 so they always now they are going to get something of supreme quality," says Lemmer.

And after all the fine dining at the Oscar parties, one company is offering fat reduction gift certificates and anti-ageing treatments.

Dr. Eric Prestin D.C, Q.M.E Ventura Lipo-Light, Ventura California (Qualified Medical Evaluator) says it enables him to reach celebrities and teach them about his product.

"This is different from other technologies out there because unlike other technologies that will kill the fat cell by overheating it or freezing it. This does does not harm the fat cell, it just helps the fat cell open up and release all of the contents so we can use that fat for energy and reduce specific spots in our body."

If the stars are in need of rejuvenation after all the parties, then perhaps this quirky water bottle could work.

The Memobottle fits into your laptop case, and it squarely is the novelty gift of the season.

Jesse Leeworthy, Memobottle, creator and co-founder says being part of the swag bag is a hopeful way to get it into celebrities hands - literally.

"Each celebrity will receive one A-5 memo bottle. The Memobottle is a slimline premium designed water bottle in the shape of a piece of paper. It will slide into your favourite carry bag next to your laptop or your books. The bottle is also BPA free, meaning that it won't leach any chemicals into your water," says Leeworthy.

For many of the nominees, perhaps the thought of a freebie life makeover or holiday will help ease those Oscar losing woes.

The "Everyone Wins at the Oscars Gift Bag" is an independent production and has no affiliation with AMPAS� or the Academy Awards.�

AP TELEVISION

Beverly Hills, California - 18 February 2015

1. Mid of designer showing gown at Roger Neal Style Hollywood Beauty & Couture Suite at penthouse of Luxe Rodeo Drive Hotel

2. Mid tilt up of woman wearing Oscars style gown

3. Wide of woman tasting wines at gifting table

4. Mid tilt up from chocolates to people looking at gifting tables

5. Mid of woman showing shaper lingerie on gifting table

6. Close tilt up of Oscars style cake

7. Mid of actor Kevin Sorbo tasting cake, UPSOUND: "You can't have any of this."

8. Mid pan of media taking photos in gifting suite

9. Close of handmade I Dream of Jeannie commemorative 50 year anniversary bottles

10. Mid of artist having his photo taken with his I Dream of Jeannie bottle

11. Set up up of George Blodwell, celebrity stylist

12. SOUNDBITE: (English) George Blodwell, celebrity stylist

"You can't really expect a superstar, that everybody knows all over the world, to hold a product up that costs $100 to $200 and have their picture taken with it because these people will use it for publicity. If you're using a star for publicity, it can cost quite a bit of money because the attention the star gives to that product is priceless so they are not coming to these gifting suites as much, because they're expected to hold the product have a picture taken for the people supplying the little gift for them and to be honest it's very tiring and draining and they are not going to do it."

13. Mid of woman showing a gown

14. Mid tilt down of purses

15. Pull out of pink and yellow diamond necklace, earrings and bracelet

16. Mid of woman getting a manicure

17. Mid of a man getting a spray tan

18. Pull out of a woman getting a massage

19. Mid of a woman getting eyelash extensions

20. Set up of Roger Neal, veteran talent manager and Hollywood publicist

21. Wide of gifting suite

22. SOUNDBITE: (English) Roger Neal, veteran talent manager and Hollywood publicist

"It's turned into something that raises money for charity and that's why I get the stars. The stars can afford anything I have to give them, they can afford it but when they come in an autograph something for our charity like Hollygrove this year and it's auctioned off and raises money for the charity - then I'm giving back to the stars as a thank you for coming to my suite so that's why I do it. I don't do it for any other reason but to give back. My suite as a mission to it, that's why I think I'm different and I think that's why we haven't burned out."

23. Pull out from Niagra's Honeymoon Sweets edible chocolate frames

24. Mid of chocolate edible frame with edible photo

25. Set up of Lash Fary, Distinctive Assets, "Everyone Wins at the Oscars Nominee Gift Bag"

26. Close up of gift bag

27. Mid of Lash Fary examining gold bow tie/necklace gift item

28. Wide of entire gifting display

29. SOUNDBITE (English) Lash Fary, Distinctive Assets, "Everyone Wins at the Oscars Nominee Gift Bag"

"What I find is happening out there with gift suites for the Oscars let's say, is all these companies are setting up at these various hotels and they are trying to get Oscar nominees to come and Oscar nominees are busy getting ready for the Oscars and it's just not who is coming to these gift suites so I think companies are realising that they are setting up and having lovely actors come, and I think Shannon Elizabeth is a lovely person, but you have actors who have nothing to do with the Oscars coming to your Oscar gift suite, so what companies are doing is looking at this Oscar nominee package and saying if I can get my product directly to Reese Witherspoon, directly to Julianne Moore and directly to the people I want, that is a more effective use of my marketing dollar, than setting up a suite and praying that some celebrity is going to show up and get my product."

30. Mid of Audi A4 car for one year rentals

31. Wide of Audi A4 car

32. Close of Silvercar logo

33. Set up of Russell Lemmer, All-Audi A4 Car Rental Service, co-founder

34. SOUNDBITE: (English) Russell Lemmer, All-Audi A4 Car Rental Service, co-founder:

"The Oscar nominees are getting Silvercar for an entire year which is the new airport car rental service. It's really great for them. They travel a lot and they don't want to deal with lines or hassles or irritating upsells so we have eliminated all that. Every car that we offer is a brand new silver Audi A-4 so they always now they are going to get something of supreme quality."

35. Wide of Lipo-Light machine and woman on table

36. Close of LED light facial device

37. Close of the Lipo-Light pads on body

38. Set up Dr. Eric Prestin D.C, Q.M.E Ventura Lipo-Light, Ventura California (Qualified Medical Evaluator)

39. SOUNDBITE: (English) Dr. Eric Prestin D.C, Q.M.E Ventura Lipo-Light, Ventura California (Qualified Medical Evaluator)

"This is different from other technologies out there because unlike other technologies that will kill the fat cell by overheating it or freezing it. This does does not harm the fat cell, it just helps the fat cell open up and release all of the contents so we can use that fat for energy and reduce specific spots in our body."

40. Mid of Memobottle

41. Pull out of a man taking sip from memo bottle

42. Close of Memobottle

43. Set up of Jesse Leeworthy, Memobottle, creator and co-founder

44. SOUNDBITE: (English) Jesse Leeworthy, Memobottle, creator and co-founder:

"Each celebrity will receive one A-5 Memobottle. The Memobottle is a slimline premium designed water bottle in the shape of a piece of paper. It will slide into your favourite carry bag next to your laptop or your books. The bottle is also BPA free, meaning that it won't leach any chemicals into your water."

45. Wide of Lash Fary and assistant adjusting products on gift suite table

46. Close of gift bag items: maple syrup, chocolate covered pretzels and hair conditioner

47. Close of shoes and various other small gift items

48. Mid of gift items display

49. Close up of Rocky Mountaineer model train

50. Close up of Reset Yourself for Life poster

51. Mid of Martone mountain bike for glamping adventure trip

TCA CELEBS REFLECT ON MOVIE-THEATRE SHOOTINGS

A day after the Colorado movie-theatre shootings that took the lives of 12 and injured 58 others, celebrities in Beverly Hills, at the opening day of the 2012 summer session of the Television Critics Association (TCA), weighed in on the tragedy -- most raising questions about stateside gun control.

"Thor" director and actor Kenneth Branagh, at the TCAs promoting miniseries "Wallander 3," said, "I think that it is inevitable and it's necessary that after such tragic events that a debate is inevitably brought up on all elements of it, whether it's gun control or influences or the background of those involved or the specific circumstances. And I think it's too important and it's too devastating for those involved to jump to conclusions, but that there should be serious and considered conversation about how one could possibly do anything and everything possible one could to avoid the repeat of such a heinous and tragic situation. That's important, but it's not the matter of an instant reaction, I think."

Actor Hugh Bonneville, an Emmy nominee for the second series of "Downton Abbey" and in town to generate press the third installment, noted, "We have gun crime in Britain. But we don't have access to guns in the same way that you do here. I'm not from this country. I'm not going to be drawn into the debate. But I think if you don't have access to a gun, you can't shoot people. That's all I'll say."

Documentarian Ken Burns, in Beverly Hills unveiling his latest film, "The Dust Bowl," commented, "No one wants to take away anybody's guns. But you don't need to have a machine gun and a shotgun and two Glocks if you're clearly a troubled kid who has booby-trapped your apartment with things and you end up with the greatest mass shooting in American history -- in the same town, just around the corner from Columbine (site of the 1999 high-school shootings, which took 13 lives and injured 24), the same metropolitan area where those horrible events happened. It's just heartbreaking. There's no other word for it. What do you do?"

"Well it's happened before, hasn't it?" asked house-and-home expert Martha Stewart, at TCAs to introduce her new series, "Martha Stewart's Cooking School, who continued, "And I totally agree with (New York City) mayor (Michael) Bloomberg about it. Bloomberg is my friend, and I totally support what he is saying: that we have two men running for president, neither of them who has said anything about gun control. And it's very necessary in this world, where things are accessible -- bad things are accessible -- to put some curbs on that."

Comic, activist and former presidential candidate Dick Gregory, who appears in the documentary "Soul Food Junkie," commented, "He (alleged Colorado movie-theatre shooter James Holmes, 24) comes in and goes (makes automatic machine-gun noises) -- shooting up everything, right? He goes out in the parking lot, and something don't fit. He gave up without a fight. That's not the mind that's just finished what they told us. Huh? He gave up without a fight? You're going to kill all those people, and you're not going to shoot it out? And then you're going to tell the cops, 'Don't go in my house because it's been booby-trapped.' Something ain't right with that."

AP Entertainment

Beverly Hills, California, 21 July 2012

1. Wide exterior Beverly Hilton hotel

2. Actor-director Kenneth Branagh poses for photographer

3. SOUNDBITE (English) Kenneth Branagh/Actor-Director, on the movie-theatre shootings Friday (20 July 2012) in Colorado:

"I think that it is inevitable and it's necessary that after such tragic events that a debate is inevitably brought up on all elements of it, whether it's gun control or influences or the background of those involved or the specific circumstances. And I think it's too important and it's too devastating for those involved to jump to conclusions, but that there should be serious and considered conversation about how one could possibly do anything and everything possible one could to avoid the repeat of such a heinous and tragic situation. That's important, but it's not the matter of an instant reaction, I think."

4. Actor Hugh Bonneville poses for photographer

5. SOUNDBITE (English) Hugh Bonneville, Actor-Emmy Nominee, "Downton Abbey," on the movie-theatre shootings Friday (20 July 2012) in Colorado:

"We have gun crime in Britain. But we don't have access to guns in the same way that you do here. I'm not from this country. I'm not going to be drawn into the debate. But I think if you don't have access to a gun, you can't shoot people. That's all I'll say."

6. Documentarian Ken Burns poses for photographer

++NOTE: Start of audio for shot seven begins under shot six, to cover person who inadvertently walked behind Burns during start of interview bite.

7. SOUNDBITE (English) Ken Burns/Documentarian, on the movie-theatre shootings Friday (20 July 2012) in Colorado:

"No one wants to take away anybody's guns. But you don't need to have a machine gun and a shotgun and two Glocks if you're clearly a troubled kid who has booby-trapped your apartment with things and you end up with the greatest mass shooting in American history -- in the same town, just around the corner from Columbine (site of the 1999 high-school shootings, which took 13 lives and injured 24), the same metropolitan area where those horrible events happened. It's just heartbreaking. There's no other word for it. What do you do?"

8. House-and-home expert Martha Stewart poses for photographer

9. SOUNDBITE (English) Martha Stewart/House and Home Expert, on the movie-theatre shootings Friday (20 July 2012) in Colorado:

"Well it's happened before, hasn't it? And I totally agree with (New York City) mayor (Michael) Bloomberg about it. Bloomberg is my friend, and I totally support what he is saying: that we have two men running for president, neither of them who has said anything about gun control. And it's very necessary in this world, where things are accessible -- bad things are accessible -- to put some curbs on that."

10. Comedian-activist Dick Gregory poses for photographer

11. SOUNDBITE (English) Dick Gregory/Comedian-Activist, on the movie-theatre shootings Friday (20 July 2012) in Colorado:

"He (alleged Colorado movie-theatre shooter James Holmes, 24) comes in and goes (makes automatic machine-gun noises) -- shooting up everything, right? He goes out in the parking lot, and something don't fit. He gave up without a fight. That's not the mind that's just finished what they told us. Huh? He gave up without a fight? You're going to kill all those people, and you're not going to shoot it out? And then you're going to tell the cops, 'Don't go in my house because it's been booby-trapped.' Something ain't right with that."

12. Comedian-activist Dick Gregory poses for photographer

GAGA ON THOUSAND OAKS SHOOTING: 'ANOTHER REMINDER THAT WE HAVE TO DO BETTER'

The union representing actors was celebrating its own Thursday (8 NOVEMBER) night in Beverly Hills.

But many attendees acknowledged they were somber in the wake of news from a city just 35 miles northwest.

Wednesday night, 12 were killed during a mass shooting in Thousand Oaks nightclub. Authorities identified the shooter as a former U.S. Marine who was armed with a legally purchased .45-caliber Glock 21 handgun.

"Last night's shooting is another reminder that we have to do better," said recording artist and actress Lady Gaga. "There is so much that we need to do in this world," she continued.

Gaga, widely considered a current awards-season contender for her performance in the musical "A Star is Born," was among those honored by The SAG-AFTRA Foundation at its annual Patron of the Artists Awards.

The Foundation, which provides assistance to union members in need, also honored studio executive Jeffrey Katzenberg, director Spike Lee and actor Harrison Ford.

"I wish that we could hear more appropriate language from our leadership," noted Ford, referring to US President Donald Trump's response to the shootings. "It's very sad. And my heart goes out to all those people."

Director Lee, himself buzzed as an awards-season contender for "BlacKkKlansman," a sometimes-humorous commentary on modern-day America that Lee refuses to call a "comedy."

When asked about the Wednesday tragedy, Lee said "this guy in the White House is really responsible for all this stuff."

"He set the tone. And his base his following up on it, and gone overboard. So, we live in a very tricky moment in history the United States of America."

Emmy winner Henry Winkler, an event attendee, said the latest shooting was "Unbelievable."

"We can spend a lot of money and send troops to the border for an invasion that isn't happening. But we can do nothing about the incredible loss of life that is happening with such frequency - for real in our country."

Veteran Malaysian superstar Michelle Yeoh, now riding high in Hollywood thanks to the TV series "Star Trek: Discovery" and the box-office hit "Crazy Rich Asians," said, "It's so heartbreaking for, you know, families to have to deal with this. And, often enough, I don't understand your gun rules, and I don't claim to understand it at all, because, you know, in Asia, we just don't have. It is not allowed. And why do you have to carry weapons that are even bigger and stronger than your police force? You know, I don't understand that. And when you can buy guns so easily, it's very scary when the people who are mentally not stable still have access to that. I hope your government, your president will protect his people better, because you deserve to be protected."

Beverly Hills, Calif., 8 November 2018

1. Wide Wallis Annenberg Center for the Performing Arts

2. Arrivals-line backdrop with logo: SAG-AFTRA Foundation, Patron of the Artists Awards

3. Lady Gaga arrives, poses for photographers

4. SOUNDBITE (English) Lady Gaga, recording artist/actress/honoree, on the mass shooting Wednesday (7 NOVEMBER) in Thousand Oaks, Calif.:

"Last night's shooting is another reminder that we have to do better. There is so much that we need to do in this world. But what I really believe is No. 1 is making mental health a global priority. And this is something that I care very much about, and that I will speak about this evening."

5. Harrison Ford poses for photographers

6. SOUNDBITE (English) Harrison Ford, actor/honoree:

"I wish that we could hear more appropriate language from our leadership. It's very sad. And my heart goes out to all those people."

7. Spike Lee poses for photographers

8. SOUNDBITE (English) Spike Lee, director:

"Well, I think that this guy in the White House is really responsible for all this stuff. He set the tone. And his base his following up on it., and gone overboard. So, we live in a very tricky moment in history the United States of America."

(Reporter: "Do you think the elections will make any difference?")

Lee: "The midterm? Yes. Yes. It's going to be a showdown."

9. Henry Winkler and Spike Lee pose for photographers

10. SOUNDBITE (English) Henry Winkler, actor:

"It's unbelievable. And, so, we can spend a lot of money and send troops to the border for an invasion that isn't happening. But we can do nothing about the incredible loss of life that is happening with such frequency, for real in our country."

(Reporter: "So, what's the solution?")

Winkler: "The solution is caring about the population and not just a base."

11. Michelle Yeoh poses for photographers

11. SOUNDBITE (English) Michelle Yeoh, actress:

"It's so heartbreaking for, you know, families to have to deal with this. And, often enough, I don't understand your gun rules, and I don't claim to understand it at all, because, you know, in Asia, we just don't have. It is not allowed. And why do you have to carry weapons that are even bigger and stronger than your police force? You know, I don't understand that. And when you can buy guns so easily, it's very scary when the people who are mentally not stable still have access to that. I hope your government, your president will protect his people better, because you deserve to be protected."

12. Adam Driver, Spike Lee and studio chief/honoree Jeffrey Katzenberg pose for photographers

GAGA ON THOUSAND OAKS SHOOTING: 'ANOTHER REMINDER THAT WE HAVE TO DO BETTER'

The union representing actors was celebrating its own Thursday (8 NOVEMBER) night in Beverly Hills.

But many attendees acknowledged they were sombre in the wake of news from a city just 35 miles northwest.

Wednesday night, 12 were killed during a mass shooting in Thousand Oaks nightclub. Authorities identified the shooter as a former U.S. Marine who was armed with a legally purchased .45-caliber Glock 21 handgun.

"Last night's shooting is another reminder that we have to do better," said recording artist and actress Lady Gaga. "There is so much that we need to do in this world," she continued.

Gaga, widely considered a current awards-season contender for her performance in the musical "A Star is Born," was among those honored by The SAG-AFTRA Foundation at its annual Patron of the Artists Awards.

The Foundation, which provides assistance to union members in need, also honored studio executive Jeffrey Katzenberg, director Spike Lee and actor Harrison Ford.

"I wish that we could hear more appropriate language from our leadership," noted Ford, referring to US President Donald Trump's response to the shootings. "It's very sad. And my heart goes out to all those people."

Director Lee, himself buzzed as an awards-season contender for "BlacKkKlansman," a sometimes-humorous commentary on modern-day America that Lee refuses to call a "comedy."

When asked about the Wednesday tragedy, Lee said "this guy in the White House is really responsible for all this stuff."

"He set the tone. And his base his following up on it, and gone overboard. So, we live in a very tricky moment in history the United States of America."

Emmy winner Henry Winkler, an event attendee, said the latest shooting was "Unbelievable."

"We can spend a lot of money and send troops to the border for an invasion that isn't happening. But we can do nothing about the incredible loss of life that is happening with such frequency - for real in our country."

Veteran Malaysian superstar Michelle Yeoh, now riding high in Hollywood thanks to the TV series "Star Trek: Discovery" and the box-office hit "Crazy Rich Asians," said, "It's so heartbreaking for, you know, families to have to deal with this. And, often enough, I don't understand your gun rules, and I don't claim to understand it at all, because, you know, in Asia, we just don't have. It is not allowed. And why do you have to carry weapons that are even bigger and stronger than your police force? You know, I don't understand that. And when you can buy guns so easily, it's very scary when the people who are mentally not stable still have access to that. I hope your government, your president will protect his people better, because you deserve to be protected."

Beverly Hills, Calif., 8 November 2018

1. Wide Wallis Annenberg Center for the Performing Arts

2. Arrivals-line backdrop with logo: SAG-AFTRA Foundation, Patron of the Artists Awards

3. Lady Gaga arrives, poses for photographers

4. SOUNDBITE (English) Lady Gaga, recording artist/actress/honoree, on the mass shooting Wednesday (7 NOVEMBER) in Thousand Oaks, Calif.:

"Last night's shooting is another reminder that we have to do better. There is so much that we need to do in this world. But what I really believe is No. 1 is making mental health a global priority. And this is something that I care very much about, and that I will speak about this evening."

5. Harrison Ford poses for photographers

6. SOUNDBITE (English) Harrison Ford, actor/honoree:

"I wish that we could hear more appropriate language from our leadership. It's very sad. And my heart goes out to all those people."

7. Spike Lee poses for photographers

8. SOUNDBITE (English) Spike Lee, director:

"Well, I think that this guy in the White House is really responsible for all this stuff. He set the tone. And his base his following up on it., and gone overboard. So, we live in a very tricky moment in history the United States of America."

(Reporter: "Do you think the elections will make any difference?")

Lee: "The midterm? Yes. Yes. It's going to be a showdown."

GAGA ON THOUSAND OAKS SHOOTING: 'ANOTHER REMINDER THAT WE HAVE TO DO BETTER'

The union representing actors was celebrating its own Thursday (8 NOVEMBER) night in Beverly Hills.

But many attendees acknowledged they were somber in the wake of news from a city just 35 miles northwest.

Wednesday night, 12 were killed during a mass shooting in Thousand Oaks nightclub. Authorities identified the shooter as a former U.S. Marine who was armed with a legally purchased .45-caliber Glock 21 handgun.

"Last night's shooting is another reminder that we have to do better," said recording artist and actress Lady Gaga. "There is so much that we need to do in this world," she continued.

Gaga, widely considered a current awards-season contender for her performance in the musical "A Star is Born," was among those honored by The SAG-AFTRA Foundation at its annual Patron of the Artists Awards.

The Foundation, which provides assistance to union members in need, also honored studio executive Jeffrey Katzenberg, director Spike Lee and actor Harrison Ford.

"I wish that we could hear more appropriate language from our leadership," noted Ford, referring to US President Donald Trump's response to the shootings. "It's very sad. And my heart goes out to all those people."

Director Lee, himself buzzed as an awards-season contender for "BlacKkKlansman," a sometimes-humorous commentary on modern-day America that Lee refuses to call a "comedy."

When asked about Wednesday tragedy, Lee immediately placed the blame on Trump.

"Well, I think that this guy in the White House is really responsible for all this stuff," Lee said. "He set the tone. And his base his following up on it, and gone overboard. So, we live in a very tricky moment in history the United States of America."

Emmy winner Henry Winkler, an event attendee, isn't a big fan of the current POTUS either.

"Unbelievable," commented the "Barry" actor. "We can spend a lot of money and send troops to the border for an invasion that isn't happening. But we can do nothing about the incredible loss of life that is happening with such frequency -- for real in our country."

Veteran Malaysian superstar Michelle Yeoh, now riding high in Hollywood thanks to the TV series "Star Trek: Discovery" and the box-office hit "Crazy Rich Asians," said, "It's so heartbreaking for, you know, families to have to deal with this. And, often enough, I don't understand your gun rules, and I don't claim to understand it at all, because, you know, in Asia, we just don't have. It is not allowed. And why do you have to carry weapons that are even bigger and stronger than your police force? You know, I don't understand that. And when you can buy guns so easily, it's very scary when the people who are mentally not stable still have access to that. I hope your government, your president will protect his people better, because you deserve to be protected."

Beverly Hills, Calif., 8 November 2018

1. Wide Wallis Annenberg Center for the Performing Arts

2. Arrivals-line backdrop with logo: SAG-AFTRA Foundation, Patron of the Artists Awards

3. Recording artist/actress/honoree arrives, poses for photographers

4. SOUNDBITE (English) Lady Gaga, recording artist/actress/honoree, on the mass shooting Wednesday (7 NOVEMBER) in Thousand Oaks, Calif.:

"Last night's shooting is another reminder that we have to do better. There is so much that we need to do in this world. But what I really believe is No. 1 is making mental health a global priority. And this is something that I care very much about, and that I will speak about this evening."

5. Actor/Honoree Harrison Ford poses for photographers

6. SOUNDBITE (English) Harrison Ford, actor/honoree:

"I wish that we could hear more appropriate language from our leadership. It's very sad. And my heart goes out to all those people."

7. Director/honoree Spike Lee poses for photographers

8. SOUNDBITE (English) Spike Lee, director:

"Well, I think that this guy in the White House is really responsible for all this stuff. He set the tone. And his base his following up on it., and gone overboard. So, we live in a very tricky moment in history the United States of America."

(Reporter: "Do you think the elections will make any difference?)

Lee: "The midterm? Yes. Yes. It's going to be a showdown.

9. Actor Henry Winkler and director/honoree Spike Lee pose for photographers

10. SOUNDBITE (English) Henry Winkler, actor:

"Unbelievable. And, so, we can spend a lot of money and send troops to the border for an invasion that isn't happening. But we can do nothing about the incredible loss of life that is happening with such frequency -- for real in our country."

(Reporter: "So, what's the solution?")

Winkler: "The solution is caring about the population and not just a base."

11. Actress Michelle Yeoh poses for photographers

11. SOUNDBITE (English) Michelle Yeoh, actress:

"It's so heartbreaking for, you know, families to have to deal with this. And, often enough, I don't understand your gun rules, and I don't claim to understand it at all, because, you know, in Asia, we just don't have. It is not allowed. And why do you have to carry weapons that are even bigger and stronger than your police force? You know, I don't understand that. And when you can buy guns so easily, it's very scary when the people who are mentally not stable still have access to that. I hope your government, your president will protect his people better, because you deserve to be protected."

12. Actor Adam Driver, director-honoree Spike Lee and studio chief/honoree Jeffrey Katzenberg pose for photographers

ARTIST, ACTIVIST AI WEIWEI AND DIRECTOR BARRY JENKINS DISCUSS RECENT ABUSES OF FREE SPEECH

At a recent gala held by literary group Pen America, activist Ai Weiwei, director Barry Jenkins and actress Lisa Edelstein gave their personal opinions about the significance of freedom of speech.

In the three years since Donald Trump rocketed from candidate to president, the PEN American Center has criticized him as a bully, an autocrat, a user of hate speech and an enemy of free expression.  It has published studies, organized petitions and established a Press Freedom Incentive Fund.

Weiwei received the artistic expression award from Pen America.  He called the recent abuse of freedom of speech in the U.S. "quite shameful."  He believes in free speech, but not when it's used for hate.

"I think if you look at it globally and including the U.S., it's quite shameful to see human rights and freedom of speech has been abused and continuously has been abused.  So this is not a good sign and, but we always have to understand it takes every citizen to act up, to really defending (sic) those rights. Freedom of speech and human rights is never given by someone, but it has to take every individual to defend those rights."

Oscar-winning director Barry Jenkins was honored with the award for screenplay excellence.  As a writer and filmmaker, he said freedom of speech was "hugely important."

"I think the history of America has been one of evolution.  I think the First Amendment, the exercising the right of the Girst Amendment has been one of the ways in which the people have been able to help the government evolve to a place where everyone's rights are protected.  And so it's funny, I was just... I got off the plane and someone asked me about this cheerleader for the 49ers because this cheerleader took a knee last night and they said, 'What do you think? Do you think she's a hero?'  I was like, 'Of course she's a hero.  She's exercising her First Amendment right,' you know.  Anytime we have the freedom to do that, anytime we have the courage to do that, I think we make the country, we make the (inaudible) a much better place."

Actress Lisa Edelstein - best known for playing Dr. Lisa Cuddy on the Fox medical drama series "House" - was at the event to present an award to a friend of hers.  She said we are going through a "terrible time in our country."

"I have been really deeply saddened by everything that's happened.  The, the slaughter at the synagogue last week and the hate crime in Louisville with the man who was trying to get into the church and instead killed some random black people.  It's really... we've come to a new low and I'm just not sure all the country understands how close we are to creating a much worse situation for ourselves.  So yes, I support our, the freedom of the press and the truth and we all need to work harder at speaking our minds and making sure that we fight for the rights."

Pen America is a literary and human rights organization which includes thousands of authors and journalists.

Beverly Hills, Calif., 2 November 2018

1. Medium shot; pull out, Ai Weiwei posing for photographers

2. Medium shot Ai Weiwei speaking to reporter

3. SOUNDBITE (English) Ai Weiwei, artist/activist:

"I think if you look at it globally and including the U.S., it's quite shameful to see human rights and freedom of speech has been abused and continuously has been abused. So this is not a good sign and, but we always have to understand it takes every citizen to act up, to really defending (sic) those rights. Freedom of speech and human rights is never given by someone, but it has to take every individual to defend those rights."

4. Medium shot; pull-out, director Barry Jenkins posing for photographers holding a sign that reads 'Protect the First Amendment'

5. Medium shot; pull-out, director Barry Jenkins posing for photographers

6. SOUNDBITE (English) Barry Jenkins, director:

"I think it's hugely important. I think the history of America has been one of evolution. I think the First Amendment, the exercising the right of the Girst Amendment has been one of the ways in which the people have been able to help the government evolve to a place where everyone's rights are protected. And so it's funny, I was just... I got off the plane and someone asked me about this cheerleader for the 49ers because this cheerleader took a knee last night and they said, 'What do you think? Do you think she's a hero?' I was like, 'Of course she's a hero. She's exercising her First Amendment right,' you know. Anytime we have the freedom to do that, anytime we have the courage to do that, I think we make the country, we make the (inaudible) a much better place."

7. Medium shot Ai Weiwei and director Barry Jenkins takeing selfies on the red carpet

8. Various shots actress Lisa Edelstein posing for photographers

9. SOUNDBITE (English) Lisa Edelstein, actress:

"I find it really interesting that hateful rhetoric is given more freedom than the response to it. It's a terrible time in our country and I, I have been really deeply saddened by everything that's happened. The, the slaughter at the synagogue last week and the hate crime in Louisville with the man who was trying to get into the church and instead killed some random black people. It's really... we've come to a new low and I'm just not sure all the country understands how close we are to creating a much worse situation for ourselves. So yes, I support our, the freedom of the press and the truth and we all need to work harder at speaking our minds and making sure that we fight for the rights."

10. Medium of Pen America backdrop

ACTORS, OSCAR-WINNING PRODUCER TALK ABORTION LAW BOYCOTTS, UNINTENDED CONSEQUENCES

Elizabeth Debicki and other actresses attending the annual Women in Film gala said it's the duty of Hollywood studios to boycott states that allow restrictive abortion laws to go into effect, while others pointed out that such a move could have unintended consequences.

Speaking from the red carpet in Beverly Hills, Debicki ("Widows" and "Guardians of the Galaxy Vol. 2") a boycott would make "a very important, powerful statement that we don't stand by or abide that kind of behavior or rule-making or law-making."

"It is deeply disempowering for women," she said.

Actress Erika Christensen teared up when asked how she has felt watching state after state pass stringent abortion laws, likening it to Hulu's "The Handmaid's Tale," which depicts women being ruled as property in a future dystopian United States.

"It gives me the chills," Christensen said, though she wasn't entirely sure a studio boycott would be good.

"That's so complicated because there are so many women working in those states," she said. "Of course, I support the threat because that could be really useful. But I don't know the economics of pulling out of those states and how that would affect female crew members."

Oscar-winning producer Cathy Schulman agreed.

"I've had some of my best working experiences in these states, and I cherish each individual who's worked on these shows and stays in contact with me to get the work and needs the work," said Schulman, who co-produced 2004's "Crash." "We just have to be careful. There's individuals involved who didn't pass these laws."

Still, she said, she couldn't be a part of a production being filmed in any state that essentially bans abortion.

Louisiana, Georgia, Kentucky, Mississippi and Ohio have enacted bills barring abortion once there's a detectable fetal heartbeat, as early as the sixth week of pregnancy. Missouri's governor signed a bill last month approving an eight-week ban on abortion, with exceptions only for medical emergencies. Alabama has gone even further, outlawing virtually all abortions, even in cases of rape or incest. None of the bans has taken effect, and all are expected to face legal challenges.

Netflix and other major Hollywood studios have said they're reevaluating filming in Georgia if its abortion law goes into effect.

Beverly Hills, California, 12 June 2019

1. Medium of Women in Film gala red carpet

2. Wide of Beverly Hilton hotel

3. Tight of Beverly Hilton hotel

4. Medium of actress Elizabeth Debicki talking to a reporter on the red carpet

5. SOUNDBITE (English) Elizabeth Debicki, actress:

"Again, I think it's a very important, powerful statement that we don't stand by or abide that kind of behavior or rule-making or law-making being put in place because it is deeply disempowering for women. Obviously."

6. Medium of actress Erika Christensen talking to a reporter on the red carpet

7. SOUNDBITE (English) Erika Christensen, actress:

"That's so complicated because there are so many women working in those states. So I don't know. I mean, there are a lot of factors involved. Of course, I support the threat because that could be really useful. But I don't know the economics of pulling out of those states and how that would affect female crew members in those states."

(Reporter: "How have you felt watching these laws get passed?")

Christensen (tearing up): I mean, it gives me chills ... Handmaid's Tale? I don't know."

8. Medium of actress Lake Bell talking to a reporter on the red carpet

9. SOUNDBITE (English) Lake Bell, actress, director:

"I think those grand gestures are important and I think sometimes when we're in this industry, you think about like, what are the things that I can do to kind of help move the needle? And so it's very effective. So in that way I'm like, you know, I'm never gonna deny a grand gesture that is in support of human rights, not just women's rights."

10. Medium of Oscar-winning producer Cathy Schulman talking to a reporter

11. SOUNDBITE (English) Cathy Schulman, producer:

"I'm happy for studios to get involved in politics at any time, and filmmakers in general. That said I would like to point out that I've had some of my best working experiences in these states, and I cherish each individual who's worked on these shows and stays in contact with me to get the work and needs the work. So we just have to be careful. There's individuals involved who didn't pass these laws. They may have elected those officials, but you know, it's like, this is complicated. But overall I can't be part of supporting those kinds of situations either, nor would I want to be. So I understand what the studios are doing."

12. Medium of actress Rosanna Arquette talking to a reporter on the red carpet

13. SOUNDBITE (English) Rosanna Arquette, actress:

"I absolutely support that and I was really very happy to hear, of course Netflix would, they would do that. And they could lose a lot of money doing that. But it's really saying that you know, this isn't OK. This is really a war on women. This is a woman's choice and, you can't tell an 11-year-old who may have been raped and is pregnant, that they're are forced to keep their rapist's child. I mean, it's insane what's happening. So hopefully everything's going to be OK."

14. Medium of actor Charlie Barnett talking to a reporter on the red carpet

15. SOUNDBITE (English) Charlie Barnett, actor:

"Do I support the boycott? You know, I have to say I support it. I support it personally. I think it's of course obviously a very complicated situation. You know they're talking about Atlanta and the people who do support abortion who are also going to be diminished or challenged because of that. Look, if I personally had the opportunity, I would. But I love that we're having more and more conversations about it and getting deeper into the root of it and understanding the minute complications because it's not always black and white. And I think it's important to hear each side."

16. Medium of actress Christina Ochoa talking to a reporter on the red carpet

17. SOUNDBITE (English) Christina Ochoa, actress:

"Oh 100 percent, I think it's their duty. I think it's anybody's duty on a personal, professional, and you know, as an industry, to take a stand for the things that are right, first off. But 100 percent, when you have the ability to catalyze a change across the board, you kind of have that obligation, as well."

18. Tight of Women in Film gala logo

Actors attending a Screen Actors Guild event on Thursday commented on the mass shooting in Thousand Oaks, California which left 12 dead, just 35 miles from the event's location in Beverly Hills.

"Last night's shooting is another reminder that we have to do better," said recording artist and actress Lady Gaga, among those honoured by The SAG-AFTRA Foundation at its annual Patron of the Artists Awards.

"What I really believe is number one is making mental health a global priority," she continued.

The Foundation, which provides assistance to union members in need, also honoured studio executive Jeffrey Katzenberg, director Spike Lee and actor Harrison Ford.

"I wish that we could hear more appropriate language from our leadership," noted Ford, referring to US President Donald Trump's response to the shootings.

"It's very sad. And my heart goes out to all those people."

When asked about Wednesday's tragedy, Lee immediately placed the blame on Trump.

"Well, I think that this guy in the White House is really responsible for all this stuff," Lee said.

"He set the tone. And his base his following up on it, and gone overboard. So, we live in a very tricky moment in history the United States of America."

Emmy winner Henry Winkler, an event attendee, isn't a big fan of the current president either.

"Unbelievable," commented the actor.

"We can spend a lot of money and send troops to the border for an invasion that isn't happening. But we can do nothing about the incredible loss of life that is happening with such frequency, for real, in our country."

Veteran Malaysian superstar Michelle Yeoh said it was "so heartbreaking for, you know, families to have to deal with this," adding she didn't understand the US's gun rules and "I hope your government, your president will protect his people better, because you deserve to be protected."

Former marine Ian David Long shot and killed 12 people at a country music bar which was hosting a night for local college students.

Authorities haven't identified what motivated Long to open fire during college night at Borderline Bar and Grill in Thousand Oaks, around 40 miles (64 kilometres) from central Los Angeles.

The dead included 11 people inside the bar and a veteran sheriff's sergeant who was the first officer through the door.

Beverly Hills, California - 8 November 2018

1. Wallis Annenberg Center for the Performing Arts

2. Arrivals-line backdrop with logo: SAG-AFTRA Foundation, Patron of the Artists Awards

3. Recording artist/actress/honoree arrives, poses for photographers

4. SOUNDBITE (English) Lady Gaga, recording artist/actress/honoree:

"Last night's shooting is another reminder that we have to do better. There is so much that we need to do in this world. But what I really believe is number one is making mental health a global priority. And this is something that I care very much about, and that I will speak about this evening."

5. Actor/Honoree Harrison Ford poses for photographers

6. SOUNDBITE (English) Harrison Ford, actor/honoree:

"I wish that we could hear more appropriate language from our leadership. It's very sad. And my heart goes out to all those people."

7. Director/honoree Spike Lee poses for photographers

8. SOUNDBITE (English) Spike Lee, film director:

"Well, I think that this guy in the White House is really responsible for all this stuff. He set the tone. And his base is following up on it, and gone overboard. So, we live in a very tricky moment in history of the United States of America."

(Reporter: "Do you think the elections will make any difference?)

Lee: "The midterm? Yes. Yes. It's going to be a showdown."

9. Actor Henry Winkler and director/honoree Spike Lee pose for photographers

10. SOUNDBITE (English) Henry Winkler, actor:

"It's unbelievable. And, so, we can spend a lot of money and send troops to the border for an invasion that isn't happening. But we can do nothing about the incredible loss of life that is happening with such frequency, for real, in our country."

(Reporter: "So, what's the solution?")

Winkler: "The solution is caring about the population and not just a base."

11. Actress Michelle Yeoh poses for photographers

11. SOUNDBITE (English) Michelle Yeoh, actress:

"It's so heartbreaking for, you know, families to have to deal with this. And, often enough I don't understand your gun rules, and I don't claim to understand it at all, because, you know, in Asia, we just don't have.... it's not allowed. And why do you have to carry weapons that are even bigger and stronger than your police force? You know, I don't understand that. And when you can buy guns so easily, it's very scary when the people who are mentally not stable still have access to that. I hope your government, your president will protect his people better, because you deserve to be protected."

12. Actor Adam Driver, director-honouree Spike Lee and studio chief/honoree Jeffrey Katzenberg pose for photographers

PAUL TALKS 'STAR WARS,' PINK TALKS GRAMMYS AT CHARITY EVENT

Pink's daughter isn't even four years old, but the pop star says she already knows the value in giving back.

"Every time she gets a toy she has to give away eight. And she's really good at it. She'll go in her playroom, and be like 'nope, not that.' 'How about this, Willa?' 'Um, OK, I'm done with that.' And she's -- and then, 'I didn't finish my broccoli. Do you want to take it to your charity dinner tonight?' I'm like, 'I don't think that's legal.' But she's good. She's already there," she said.

Pink was performing and was among the honorees at a charity event in Beverly Hills, California on Thursday night (19 FEB 2015). Sponsored by unite4:humanity and Variety, the event drew the likes of Halle Berry, Emily Blunt and Aaron Paul, whose wife Lauren Parsekian was being honored for her anti-bullying effort the Kind Campaign.

"I'm such a proud husband, you know. I've been so impressed by these ladies ever since I met them years ago," Paul said.

The former "Breaking Bad" star shot down Internet rumors that he was going to star in one of Disney's upcoming "Star Wars" standalone movies, perhaps as a young Han Solo.

"Yeah, I'm in the new 'Star Wars.' When I first saw that I was like, wow I have a job," Paul said. "This is very exciting. I thought my reps were keeping it secret because it was such big news, and I'm just kind of waiting for the ball to drop, waiting for them to let me know like when I'm going to start shooting. It hasn't happened yet. So, um. But yeah, I'm a huge fan of 'Star Wars.'"

Christina Applegate was talking up her foundation that raises money to pay for screenings for women at high risk of breast cancer.

"I have such big lofty ideas of what I do want to do. But I can't do any of those things unless more people know about us and donate. So that's why this is such a great night for me. I get to say to a whole room, hey I have plans. And if this moves you, what we're doing, then open up your checkbooks," she said.

Ewan McGregor, being honored for his work on behalf of UNICEF, was in good spirits celebrating the recent announcement that he'd landed his first directing job. He'll be directing and acting in the Philip Roth adaptation "American Pastoral."

"Already I feel like it's a slight life shift, yes. I've wanted to direct for a very long time," McGregor said. "But I've always wanted to wait to have the right story to tell. And not to direct for the sake of becoming a director, but I wanted to have the right story."

Pink, who has also acted, sounded off on awards season as well.

She thought the Grammys got its Album of the Year pick right: "I love Beck. I own that record. I love that record. I want everybody to win. I just don't need to tell everybody about it."

And she says she's rooting for Julianne Moore at the Academy Awards on Sunday, "because she's never won one and she's deserved it like a thousand million times."

"Hunger Games" star Josh Hutcherson is presenting an award at the Oscars.

"Yeah. I'm nervous. I don't know what I feel. I'm nervous, I'm excited, I'm terrified. I can't wait. It's going to be an experience, that's for sure," he said.

AP Entertainment

Beverly Hills, California, 19 February 2015

1. Close zoom to wide Beverly Hilton hotel, site of unite4:humanity charity event

2. Close unite4:humanity charity signage

3. Wide Halle Berry poses for photographers

4. Medium zoom to close Halle Berry on arrivals line

5. Wide Emily Blunt poses for photographers

6. Wide Jeff Bridges and Pink pose for photographers

7. SOUNDBITE (English) Pink/Recording artist:

"Well she's three and three-quarters so every time she gets a toy she has to give away eight. And she's really good at it. She'll go in her playroom, and be like 'nope, not that.' 'How about this, Willa?' 'Um, OK, I'm done with that.' And she's -- and then, 'I didn't finish my broccoli. Do you want to take it to your charity dinner tonight?' I'm like, 'I don't think that's legal.' But she's good. She's already there."

8. Wide Aaron Paul with wife Lauren Parsekian

9. SOUNDBITE (English) Aaron Paul/Actor:

"I'm such a proud husband, you know. I've been so impressed by these ladies ever since I met them years ago."

10. Medium Christina Applegate on arrivals line

11. SOUNDBITE (English) Christina Applegate/Actor:

"My foundation that I started after my diagnosis, it's called Right Action for Women. We provide financial assistance for screenings for women who are high-risk."

12. Close tilt up Christina Applegate

13. SOUNDBITE (English) Christina Applegate/Actor:

"I have such big lofty ideas of what I do want to do. But I can't do any of those things unless more people know about us and donate. So that's why this is such a great night for me. I get to say to a whole room, hey I have plans. And if this moves you, what we're doing, then open up your checkbooks."

14. Close Josh Hutcherson talks with reporter

15. SOUNDBITE (English) Josh Hutcherson/Actor:

"I was very fortunate growing up to have a very open and accepting family and friends that really allowed me to be myself and be whatever I wanted to become. So a friend of mine -- Avan Jogia -- came up with this idea to create an ally outreach organization that really helped raise awareness amongst the straight community about how important it is to show your support for the LGBT community."

16. Wide Aaron Paul with wife Lauren Parsekian

17. SOUNDBITE (English) Aaron Paul/Actor:

"Yeah, I'm in the new 'Star Wars.' When I first saw that I was like, wow I have a job. This is very exciting. I thought my reps were keeping it secret because it was such big news, and I'm just kind of waiting for the ball to drop, waiting for them to let me know like when I'm going to start shooting. It hasn't happened yet. So, um. But yeah, I'm a huge fan of 'Star Wars.'"

(Reporter: "So you didn't audition for it? You're not trying for it?")

"No. No, I mean, we're always trying for something."

18. Medium Ewan McGregor talks with reporter

19. SOUNDBITE (English) Ewan McGregor/Actor, on first directing job:

"I imagine so. Already I feel like it's a slight life shift, yes. I've wanted to direct for a very long time. But I've always wanted to wait to have the right story to tell. And not to direct for the sake of becoming a director, but I wanted to tell a story. I've been attached to 'American Pastoral' for some years now to play the Swede. And one or two directors have come and gone through that project. And it got to a point where I suggested myself to the producers at Lakeshore."

20. Wide Pink poses for photographers

21. SOUNDBITE (English) Pink/Recording artist, on Grammys:

"I love Beck. I own that record. I love that record. I want everybody to win. I just don't need to tell everybody about it."

22. Medium Pink talks with reporter

23. SOUNDBITE (English) Pink/Recording artist, on Oscars:

"It's hard to say, but Julianne Moore might get my vote. Because she's never won one and she's deserved it like a thousand million times."

24. Wide Josh Hutcherson poses for photographers

25. SOUNDBITE (English) Josh Hutcherson/Actor, on presenting at Oscars:

"Yeah. I'm nervous. I don't know what I feel. I'm nervous, I'm excited, I'm terrified. I can't wait. It's going to be an experience, that's for sure."

26. Medium Sarah Hyland poses for photographers

RIDLEY. EDGERTON, LIU AND SAWYERS REFRESHINGLY EARTHBOUND AT STUDENT ACADEMY AWARDS

Some actors are cannily looking to the future.

Joel Edgerton decided to be a presenter at Thursday's (22 SEPT. 2016) Student Academy Awards ceremony in Los Angeles in order to meet new talent and secure his next paychecks.

"I'm thinking 10 years ahead and I'm, like, 'I need a job.'" he said half-joking.

"I'm a smart guy. I'm like looking to the future. No, I'm seriously looking to the future, because where I started was no film school. There was a film school. But like whether you make it up as you go along, which we did. Or you go to, like, an established film school, it's taking baby steps and dipping your toe into something that feels a little bit unknown. And I think it's an exciting thing, and I think some of the most exciting filmmakers -- to be honest, I feel like the people I want to side up with are people who are starting out. It's a gamble. As an actor, you need to be partnered up with people that make you look good. But it's sometimes a great gamble to work with young filmmakers. And I have a real affinity to that because I remember what it was like to be young filmmaker, and wanting people to kind of partner up with us."

The awards have been established by the Academy as a platform for emerging global talent 43 years ago.

Actor Parker Sawyers who also presented at the event said it was important to discover talent early.

"We know there are incredible alumni, people from the winners of yesteryear. So, it's an exciting time for the future of film -- especially as an actor, I get to see people and meet people and present an award to people I hopefully will be working with in the future," he said.

Some Student Academy Award winners went on to be showbiz powerhouses: Robert Zemeckis ("Forrest Gump"), Bob Saget ("Full House"), Spike Lee ("Do the Right Thing"), Trey Parker ("South Park") and John Lasseter ("Toy Story") to name just a few.

Lucy Liu said she felt the time was right to participate in the ceremony, with Hollywood now openly discussing the lack of diversity in the film industry, and making moves to close gender, racial and other gaps.

"I think the timing worked out perfectly. I think there's a great deal of awareness and inclusion in terms of diversity and gender," she said.

"And we're seeing a lot of that tonight. I love that -- I'm presenting the Foreign Film, so I think there's something great about that. And Animation, which I love, too. So the combination of it is perfect."

Winners represented not only the United States, but also Germany, Israel, Poland, China, Greece, Lebanon and other countries.

Beverly Hills, Calif., 22 Sept. 2016

1. Wide exterior Academy of Motion Picture Arts and Sciences building

2. Close-up shot of Academy logo on step-and-repeat backdrop

3. Push in on actress Daisy Ridley posing for photographers

4. Actor Joel Edgerton poses for photographers

5. Fashion shot Lucy Liu poses for photographers

6. Actress Daisy Ridley speaks to reporter

7. SOUNDBITE (English) Daisy Ridley, actress:

"This is the Student Academy Awards. And it's important because this was founded because the Academy, I think 43 years ago, thought that it would be amazing to have something for students. And the quality of work is absolutely amazing. And a lot of winners from tonight have gone on to win Academy Awards."

8. Actor Parker Sawyers poses for photographers

9. SOUNDBITE (English) Parker Sawyers, actor:

"We know there are incredible alumni, people from the winners of yesteryear. So, it's an exciting time for the future of film -- especially as an actor, I get to see people and meet people and present an award to people I hopefully will be working with in the future. And, so, yeah, it's really cool."

10. Wide of group of students posing with Sawyers

11. SOUNDBITE (English) Lucy Liu, actress - on why she agreed to be a presenter at this year's Student Academy Awards:

"I think the timing worked out perfectly. I think there's a great deal of awareness and inclusion in terms of diversity and gender. And we're seeing a lot of that tonight. I love that -- I'm presenting the Foreign Film, so I think there's something great about that. And Animation, which I love, too. So the combination of it is perfect."

12. Actress Lucy Liu poses with Student Academy Award winners

13. SOUNDBITE (English) Ahmad Saleh, student Academy Award Winner, "Ayny," on reactions to his award from the many places he calls home, including Germany, Palestine and Jordan:

"Actually, the most reactions were from Germany. They knew the news faster, because it was announced as a German production. Because it actually is a German production. Even the mayor sent me a letter. I was really surprised. That's really amazing, that the mayor could actually do that, recognize even short film making it to the Oscars. And then Palestine: I was in Palestine, actually, when I heard the news. So, family and some radio stations also tried to tell the news. It was really nice. It was like a surreal day when they told the news -- all the news and friends. In Jordan, as well the film commission of Jordan also contacted me. Yeah, it was very, very nice to see how everybody was very, very happy for this."

14. (Reporter: "When the news came out, what was the response in Greece?")

SOUNDBITE (English) Daphne Matziaraki, student Academy Award Winner, "4.1 Miles":

"I think they were excited. They were excited. You know, America is a far-away place. The Student Oscars sounds like a big thing. It is a big thing. They're very proud because the news wrote a lot because it's a country that's been burdened a lot lately, as you know. And I think people are very happy to hear some good news."

15. Set-up shot Joel Edgerton speaking to reporter

16. SOUNDBITE (English) Joel Edgerton, actor - on why he felt it was important to serve as a presenter at the 2016 Student Academy Awards:

"'Cause I'm thinking 10 years ahead and I'm, like, 'I need a job.' You know what I mean? I'm a smart guy. I'm like looking to the future. No, I'm seriously looking to the future, because where I started was no film school. There was a film school. But like whether you make it up as you go along, which we did. Or you go to, like, an established film school, it's taking baby steps and dipping your toe into something that feels a little bit unknown. And I think it's an exciting thing, and I think some of the most exciting filmmakers -- to be honest, I feel like the people I want to side up with are people who are starting out. It's a gamble. As an actor, you need to be partnered up with people that make you look good. But it's sometimes a great gamble to work with young filmmakers. And I have a real affinity to that because I remember what it was like to be young filmmaker, and wanting people to kind of partner up with us."

17. Actor Joel Edgerton poses with Student Academy Award winners

JULIA ROBERTS EMBRACES HER ROLE AS 'CENTER CHEERLEADER' AT AMFAR GALA

Julia Roberts embraced her role as the "center cheerleader" at the amfAR charity gala in Beverly Hills, California on Friday (13 OCTOBER).

The actress was being honored by the nonprofit American Foundation for AIDS Research at the event, which was being hosted by James Corden and also featured Tom Hanks -- though neither posed on the black carpet outside.

"I am so happy to be around so many incredible people, just sharing time together and coming together to really try to encourage people to donate to amfAR, which I think is such an incredible organization," she said. "And to remind people that there is an end in sight for the fight to cure AIDS. We can do it. And I'm so excited to be here as the center cheerleader tonight."

Fergie was performing at the event at a private home. The singer said she'd been paying attention to the news about movie mogul Harvey Weinstein while taking care of her 4-year-old son Axl.

"Crazy. I mean, I've mostly been with Axl this week, because last week I was full-on promo, so I've mostly been in costumes running around my house and decorating Halloween decorations and all of that stuff. But yeah, I definitely – wow, that was a blow. And I just definitely think the abuse of power and sexual entitlement needs to stop," she said. "I definitely feel like it's more widespread thing. Absolutely."

The singer said she was planning to be a "covered-up Tinker Bell" for Halloween to match her son, who planned to be Peter Pan.

"But that could change. It changes on the daily. He's 4, so he changes his mind," she said.

Michelle Rodriguez had also been watching the Weinstein news, and she said it made her proud to see women banding together to talk about sexual harassment and assault, even if "we end up alone after this."

"I've been really proud that people have come out and speak their voice and that they're linking arms, the women. That they're not going to tolerate the old ways of the dinosaurs. I think that that's truly what it is – having the POTUS be the POTUS I think hurt a lot of women across America. Just to think that the men would look aside to a lot of the injustices towards women and get this guy on board. And to have that happen in Hollywood I think was just too symbolic to let it slide," the "Avatar" and "Fast and Furious" actress said.

"I'm just really proud of that women are sticking together finally and saying – you know what, so what if we end up alone after this. Let's link arms. And I think that that's a powerful thing," she added. "And it's really scary to be in a man's world and to go out alone. I've done it and it's tough, you know what I mean? Vin had to help me out a bunch of times. I have a bunch of really amazing guy friends who have helped me in my life. But if it weren't for them hooking me up, it was hard to find women, you know what I mean, who were walking the same path as me."

Rodriguez said she hadn't crossed paths with Weinstein in her career.

"I make action movies. Harvey Weinstein has incredible taste in film. His films have the true thespians in them. They're Oscar-winning films. I just started acting for real I think what this year, with McQueen. So I'm just getting into it. You know what I mean – my first movie – that was the last time I really was acting. You know what I mean," she said.

Beverly Hills, California October 2017

1. Wide arrivals line at amfAR gala with photographers

2. Close amfAR signage

3. Wide Julia Roberts talks with reporter

4. Medium Julia Roberts talks with reporter

5. SOUNDBITE (English) Julia Roberts, Actress: (Reporter: "How are you feeling tonight and what has this week been like?") "That's two questions. That's two questions. Well, I'm so happy to be here tonight and I am so happy to be around so many incredible people, just sharing time together and coming together to really try to encourage people to donate to amfAR, which I think is such an incredible organization. And to remind people that there is an end in sight for the fight to cure AIDS. We can do it. And I'm so excited to be here as the center cheerleader tonight."

6. Medium zoom to wide Fergie poses for photographers

7. SOUNDBITE (English) Fergie, Recording artist: "Crazy. I mean, I've mostly been with Axl this week, because last week I was full-on promo, so I've mostly been in costumes running around my house and decorating Halloween decorations and all of that stuff. But yeah, I definitely – wow, that was a blow. And I just definitely think the abuse of power and sexual entitlement needs to stop."

(Reporter: "Do you feel like it's a more widespread thing?")

Fergie: "I definitely feel like it's more widespread thing. Absolutely."

8. Medium Fergie poses

9. Medium Fergie talks with reporter

10. SOUNDBITE (English) Fergie, Recording artist: "My costume as of now – well, it's Axl's pick. He always picks what I am. But as of now, he wants to be Peter Pan. So I'm going, OK – I've got to get kind of a covered-up Tinker Bell. You know – for trick-or-treating. But that could change. It changes on the daily. He's 4, so he changes his mind."

11. Medium zoom to wide Michelle Rodriguez poses

12. SOUNDBITE (English) Michelle Rodriguez, Actress: " I've been really proud this week. I've got to say, I've just been really proud. I've been really proud that people have come out and speak their voice and that they're linking arms, the women. That they're not going to tolerate the old ways of the dinosaurs. I think that that's truly what it is – having the POTUS be the POTUS I think hurt a lot of women across America. Just to think that the men would look aside to a lot of the injustices towards women and get this guy on board. And to have that happen in Hollywood I think was just too symbolic to let it slide. And I'm just really proud of that women are sticking together finally and saying – you know what, so what if we end up alone after this. Let's link arms. And I think that that's a powerful thing. And it's really scary to be in a man's world and to go out alone. I've done it and it's tough, you know what I mean? Vin had to help me out a bunch of times. I have a bunch of really amazing guy friends who have helped me in my life. But if it weren't for them hooking me up, it was hard to find women, you know what I mean, who were walking the same path as me."

13. Rodriguez talks with reporter

14. SOUNDBITE (English) Michelle Rodriguez, Actress: "I make action movies. Harvey Weinstein has incredible taste in film. His films have the true thespians in them. They're Oscar-winning films. I just started acting for real I think what this year, with McQueen. So I'm just getting into it. You know what I mean – my first movie – that was the last time I really was acting. You know what I mean."

15. Medium Rodriguez on arrivals line

RITA MORENO RECOUNTS SEXUAL HARASSMENT BY STUDIO EXEC: 'IT WAS SO SCARY'

Rita Moreno Moreno says she was sexually harassed by a studio head when she was 18 years old.

"Well I was under contract to a studio. And the head of the studio, THE head of the studio, began to call me and bother me and whenever I was in the commissary having lunch he'd come over to the table. But luckily I made it a point of always having someone with me so he couldn't make a date as it were. He was married! More than married, he had a mistress. It was well known. Everybody knew who she was. Whenever she came into the commissary - she was an actress - all heads went to her because they knew she was this man's mistress. This went on for almost a year and I was about 18 and it was so scary. So scary because I thought, 'Well I guess that's the end of my career. I'm not going to have a chance. Certainly I'm not going to do any movies at this studio.' And eventually he stopped. But whenever he could, he'd see me alone, I would run like the wind because he would make a prop … He would propose something and I would just literally run the other way. Horrible," said Moreno.

The "West Side Story" actress recounted her harrowing story in Los Angeles Thursday (12 OCTOBER) outside the event, Paley Honors in Hollywood: A Gala Celebrating Women in Television.

Moreno said the news of sexual assault allegations against Harvey Weinstein hit close to home. Some 30 women have now accused the Hollywood film producer of inappropriate conduct.

"I'm just so glad that unlike myself she had the courage to make it public," said Moreno. "We didn't know how to do that in those days. Are you kidding me? We would've probably been fired immediately. And the word would get around and you wouldn't get employed. So just as well."

"Mom" actress Mimi Kennedy said she was also "preyed upon" early in her career.

"It happened to me in New York. I was really young, really naive and I thought I was special. I was having this May-December romance because I was special. I was just being preyed upon. You know you could see it was going to lead to ... I read today there's a thing called 'the pass around a girl.' I didn't know that in the early 70s. But you know you're on your way to being one of those and that's when you just go holy God! And you stop. And then you go, 'I wish someone had warned me about that the first time so I wouldn't have even made that first mistake.' So I'm warning you now. Don't make that first mistake. Yes, you are special, but don't let anybody say you're special and that's why they have to have a sexual relationship with you in order for you to be an actress," Kennedy said.

On Thursday Rose McGowan tweeted "HW raped me," apparently referring to Harvey Weinstein. A growing number of actresses, including Gwyneth Paltrow, Kate Beckinsale, Angelina Jolie and Rosanna Arquette, have also made allegations of sexual harassment.

"Mom" star Allison Janney was still reeling from the headlines.

"I'm just shocked at how much that has obviously still gone on. And it's terrible. It's a terrible thing. The only thing good is maybe women will be will be heard. Our voices will be heard because of this. I'm very intimidated with all these mics waiting for me to say something important about it. It's a terrible thing that's happened today and I'm proud of all the women that stood up," she said.

Tyne Daly was frustrated that many people are acting surprised about the allegations against Weinstein.

"I'm sad that people are pretending that this is something extraordinary and new and amazing. 'Oh how shocking!' Oh come on! There's a great deal of hypocrisy going on and it makes it harder to sort out the good guys from the bad guys," she said.

Daly had met the Hollywood heavyweight, but her impression was not a positive one.

"I could tell by meeting that man that it was an unpleasant and kind of nasty vibe," she said of Weinstein.

"Shark Tank" entrepreneur Lori Greiner wasn't sure if Weinstein could get a second chance in Hollywood, but said she doesn't judge him.

"It's so messy. It's so messy. I don't know. I always feel don't judge until you know all the facts. And I always feel like, you know, we're in a country where let everything come out. It doesn't look good, but I don't like to judge people or things," she said.

Linda Lavin focused on the positive. The "Alice" star said the chorus of women speaking out is a powerful example of courage and freedom.

"Let me just say that what I see happening now is a time of courage for women to join together to support each other, to speak out, to make visible what was hidden and that's an enormous freedom and in that freedom is empowerment," she said.

Thursday's gala celebrated eight decades of women in television and featured a special tribute to Betty White.

Beverly Hills, Calif., 12 Oct. 2017

1. Wide of Rita Moreno speaking to reporters

2. Medium of Rita Moreno speaking to reporters

3. SOUNDBITE (English) Rita Moreno, actress: "Well I was under contract to a studio. And the head of the studio, THE head of the studio, began to call me and bother me and whenever I was in the commissary having lunch he'd come over to the table. But luckily I made it a point of always having someone with me so he couldn't make a date as it were. He was married! More than married, he had a mistress. It was well known. Everybody knew who she was. Whenever she came into the commissary - she was an actress - all heads went to her because they knew she was this man's mistress. This went on for almost a year and I was about 18 and it was so scary. So scary because I thought, 'Well I guess that's the end of my career. I'm not going to have a chance. Certainly I'm not going to do any movies at this studio.' And eventually he stopped. But whenever he could, he'd see me alone, I would run like the wind because he would make a prop … He would propose something and I would just literally run the other way. Horrible."

Reporter: "I'm so sorry to hear that."

Rita Moreno: "I'm sorry to tell it."

Reporter: "These stories this week must hit home for you."

Rita Moreno: "Oh! And I'm just so glad that unlike myself she had the courage to make it public. We didn't know how to do that in those days. Are you kidding me? We would've probably been fired immediately. And the word would get around and you wouldn't get employed. So just as well."

4. SOUNDBITE (English) Allison Janney, actress - on if she thinks the industry will change in the wake of the allegations against Harvey Weinstein: "Yes, it has to. It has to. It's time. We can't go back to that. I can't. I'm just shocked at how much that has obviously still gone on. And it's terrible. It's a terrible thing. The only thing good is maybe women will be will be heard. Our voices will be heard because of this. I'm very intimidated with all these mics waiting for me to say something important about it. It's a terrible thing that's happened today and I'm proud of all the women that stood up. Oh God!"

5. Wide of Tyne Daly on the red carpet

6. SOUNDBITE (English) Tyne Daly, actress - on the allegations against Harvey Weinstein: "I'm sad that people are pretending that this is something extraordinary and new and amazing. 'Oh how shocking!' Oh come on! There's a great deal of hypocrisy going on and it makes it harder to sort out the good guys from the bad guys."

7. Camera cutaway

8. SOUNDBITE (English) Tyne Daly, actress - on Harvey Weinstein: "And in the vibe department, I could tell by meeting that man that it was an unpleasant and kind of nasty vibe."

Reporter: "From meeting Harvey?"

Tyne Daly: "Yeah."

9. SOUNDBITE (English) Mimi Kennedy, actress - on sexual harassment in Hollywood: "No. It happened to me in New York. I was really young, really naive and I thought I was special. I was having this May-December romance because I was special. I was just being prayed upon. You know you could see it was going to lead to ... I read today there's a thing called 'the pass around a girl.' I didn't know that in the early 70s. But you know you're on your way to being one of those and that's when you just go holy God! And you stop. And then you go, 'I wish someone had warned me about that the first time so I wouldn't have even made that first mistake.' So I'm warning you now. Don't make that first mistake. Yes, you are special, but don't let anybody say you're special and that's why they have to have a sexual relationship with you in order for you to be an actress."

10. Lori Greiner speaks to reporter

11. SOUNDBITE (English) Lori Greiner, actress - on if Weinstein will get a second chance in Hollywood: "It's so messy. It's so messy. I don't know. I always feel don't judge until you know all the facts. And I always feel like, you know, we're in a country where let everything come out. It doesn't look good, but I don't like to judge people or things."

12. Linda Lavin speaks to reporters

13. SOUNDBITE (English) Linda Lavin, actress: "Let me just say that what I see happening now is a time of courage for women to join together to support each other, to speak out, to make visible what was hidden and that's an enormous freedom and in that freedom is empowerment."

14. Linda Lavin speaks to reporters

PRIYANKA CHOPRA SHARES HER EXPERIENCE WITH SEXUAL HARASSMENT: 'IT'S EXTREMELY SCARY'

Priyanka Chopra joins the chorus of courageous men and women speaking out against sexual harassment in Hollywood.

The "Quantico" star said she's lost work because she didn't "network" with certain powerful men.

"I was thrown out of a couple of movies because I didn't 'network' and I don't network. I don't know how to do it. I think those are things that… And I dealt with it. I cried and I told my dad and I said that even if I do a small movie I'll just make sure I'm really good at it because the only thing I know is my work. And it's scary when I was 19, 20, you know? It's extremely scary. And I'm so amazed and happy that all of these women have come together and I stand shoulder to shoulder with them and say that, you know what, we're not gonna let this happen again," said Chopra.

The actress was honored Friday (13 OCT. 2017) at Variety's annual Power of Women luncheon for her work with UNICEF.

And though the focus this week has been on the allegations against Hollywood producer Harvey Weinstein, Chopra says sexual harassment is commonplace in every industry.

"Every working girl, I feel, in any industry or the other has in some form or the other dealt with intimidation by powerful men or men in power because that's normal and it's OK and it was all right. And somehow the girl is the problem and she was asking for it. Or if she didn't compromise then her career is taken away from her or she's kicked out of a film or her job is taken away from her because she's replaceable. And I'm so amazed and so happy to be living in a world right now where I commend these women who have come out there and stood up for each other because women are always told to pull each other down because only one of us can survive. But now we are in a world where my generation is fighting so hard that that doesn't happen to the next generation," she said.

Some 30 women — including actresses Angelina Jolie, Ashley Judd and Gwyneth Paltrow — have spoken out recently to say Weinstein had sexually harassed or sexually assaulted them. Singer Kelly Clarkson says she was blindsided by the news.

"Like what's happening right now with the Weinstein thing, I've honestly, I live in Tennessee and none of my even normal friends in life, let alone if I have any famous ones, like I've never heard of that happening to a girl around me. So I was honestly just as shocked as probably everyone else. I think it's because it's so unbelievable. You're like, 'Wait. What happened?' It's almost like so far-fetched, but it happened. I'm just saying I've never heard of anything like that and even with my friends at work in like dentists offices, you know like normal jobs, I've never heard that. So it was pretty shocking for me."

Clarkson, also a Variety honoree, has since spoken to her children about harassment.

"It really lit a fire in me to have conversations with, especially with our 16-year-old girl, who already deals with a lot of bullying online anyway because that's the generation that she was born into. But it lit a fire in me to be like, 'OK, I had no idea this was happening. But just in case someone does this, like here's what you do.'"

Judd Apatow, who has already spoken out in the past about Bill Cosby, another Hollywood star who has been accused of sexual assault, was also one of the first directors to speak out against Weinstein on social media. He hopes the industry learns to take harassment allegations more seriously.

"I think we need the industry to support women and say, 'If you come forward, we're going to support you. We are going to believe you. We can't live in this world where it's like the Cosby situation where all these women come forward and no one does anything. Then it's five people, then it's 10 people, then it's 20 people and 30 people. And it takes like 50 people before people think, 'Oh maybe Cosby did it.' It should take one person," he said.

Apatow urged those in a position of power to set the right tone and be fierce advocates for their employees.

"You know if you run a set then you set the tone. And if you set a tone of respect, generally people feel respected or at the very least they feel like, 'If I'm disrespected, I know if I go to Judd he will handle it.' And that's what everybody needs to do. There were a lot of people who knew what Harvey Weinstein was doing and there wasn't anybody who said, 'I want to stop this so other women don't get hurt.' People wrote those checks. People knew there were settlements and that's really another enormous problem that we have is the enablers."

Weinstein was fired Sunday by The Weinstein Co., a studio he co-founded with his brother. Harvey Weinstein has denied any nonconsensual sexual conduct with any women.

Beverly Hills, Calif., 13 Oct. 2017

1. Michelle Pfeiffer and David E Kelley pose for photos

2. Kelly Clarkson poses for photos

3. SOUNDBITE (English) Kelly Clarkson, recording artist - on speaking out on behalf of women: "I don't know. Ever since I was a kid I've always stood up for myself. I've always, you know, voiced if there is a problem. And like here's the thing, I think enough women have fought for the right for me to have a voice that it would be extremely disrespectful to not use it. And so I always teach our kids that. Not only our girls, but our boys. I mean, not our one-year-old because all he does is go 'Dada' but our other ones. It's a very important time I think right now in the history of our nation right now to really have these conversations to not only your girls, but your boys and say, 'This is not how you treat a woman. This is how you treat a woman.' Or with the girls, 'This is when you stand up for yourself. This is when…' You know whatever those lessons are. But I don't know. It's a very important time so I couldn't be more honored to get this honor, especially with all these women! I'm like, 'Why am I here?' I think they're confused. They couldn't find a fifth one or something."

4. Kelly Clarkson poses for photos

5. SOUNDBITE (English) Kelly Clarkson, recording artist: "Like what's happening right now with the Weinstein thing, I've honestly, I live in Tennessee and none of my even normal friends in life, let alone if I have any famous ones, like I've never heard of that happening to a girl around me. So I was honestly just as shocked as probably everyone else. I think it's because it's so unbelievable. You're like, 'Wait. What happened?' It's almost like so far-fetched, but it happened. I'm just saying I've never heard of anything like that and even with my friends at work in like dentists offices, you know like normal jobs, I've never heard that. So it was pretty shocking for me and it really lit a fire in me to have conversations with, especially with our 16-year-old girl, who already deals with a lot of bullying online anyway because that's the generation that she was born into. But it lit a fire in me to be like, 'OK, I had no idea this was happening. But just in case someone does this, like here's what you do.'"

6. Priyanka Chopra poses for photos

7. SOUNDBITE (English) Priyanka Chopra, actress: "Every working girl, I feel, in any industry or the other has in some form or the other dealt with intimidation by powerful men or men in power because that's normal and it's OK and it was all right. And somehow the girl is the problem and she was asking for it. Or if she didn't compromise then her career is taken away from her or she's kicked out of a film or her job is taken away from her because she's replaceable. And I'm so amazed and so happy to be living in a world right now where I commend these women who have come out there and stood up for each other because women are always told to pull each other down because only one of us can survive. But now we are in a world where my generation is fighting so hard that that doesn't happen to the next generation. And men are actually standing up for women because feminism needs men so much. And yeah, I guess my experience, I was thrown out of a couple of movies because I didn't 'network' and I don't network. I don't know how to do it. I think those are things that… And I dealt with it. I cried and I told my dad and I said that even if I do a small movie I'll just make sure I'm really good at it because the only thing I know is my work. And it's scary when I was 19, 20, you know? It's extremely scary. And I'm so amazed and happy that all of these women have come together and I stand shoulder to shoulder with them and say that, you know what, we're not gonna let this happen again."

8. Judd Apatow poses for photos

9. SOUNDBITE (English) Judd Apatow, director/producer - on hosting the luncheon: "Well it was a very different gig when they asked me to do this a month or two ago, but I'm excited to be here. I mean it's very important that we acknowledge the amazing accomplishments of these women, both as charitable people and their creative work. I think we all need a moment to get together and go, 'What the hell is happening? What do we make of it? What can we do going forward?"

Reporter: "What can we do going forward?"

Judd Apatow: "I think we need the industry to support women and say, 'If you come forward, we're going to support you. We are going to believe you. We can't live in this world where it's like the Cosby situation where all these women come forward and no one does anything. Then it's five people, then it's 10 people, then it's 20 people and 30 people. And it takes like 50 people before people think, 'Oh maybe Cosby did it.' It should take one person."

10. Judd Apatow poses for photos

11. SOUNDBITE (English) Judd Apatow, director/producer: "You know if you run a set then you set the tone. And if you set a tone of respect, generally people feel respected or at the very least they feel like, 'If I'm disrespected, I know if I go to Judd he will handle it.' And that's what everybody needs to do. There were a lot of people who knew what Harvey Weinstein was doing and there wasn't anybody who said, 'I want to stop this so other women don't get hurt.' People wrote those checks. People knew there were settlements and that's really another enormous problem that we have is the enablers."

12. Emmanuelle Chriqui poses for photos

13. Octavia Spencer poses for photos

14. Pan from Viola Davis to Chrissy Metz posing for photos

SHOTLIST

Beverly Hills - California, 26 July 2008

1. Close up Rodeo Drive street sign

2. Various wide of Via Rodeo

3. Wide of Tiffany's store

4. Close of Gianfranco Ferre store

5. Close of Judith Ripka store

6. Close Porsche design store front

7. Close of Jimmy Choo sign

8. Wide of the event on Via Rodeo

9. Set up Mayor Barry Brucker

10. SOUNDBITE (English) Barry Brucker, Mayor of Beverly Hills

"The whole city is turning into a cultural hub and the centre piece of the city is Rodeo Drive. So here at 2 Rodeo we're bringing in culture, music, luxury goods, wonderful dining. It's really a potpourri (mixture) of everything that everybody wants to dream about."

11. Set up of Bill Wiley, General Manager of 2 Rodeo

12. SOUNDBITE (English) Bill Wiley, General Manager of 2 Rodeo

"We've decided that we want to have more activities outside on the Via. We want to bring people out at night to Beverly Hills as well and to have special events here that benefit charities as well as the local community and the city."

13. Wide various of event

14. Medium of people getting food at event

15. Medium of couple at event

16.SOUNDBITE (English) Barry Brucker, Mayor of Beverly Hills

"Like any city, one needs to look at what the competition is about. You go to Dubai and it's vibrant and exciting. London is always exciting and Paris always beautiful, Beverly Hills has always been classy and luxurious. Now what we wanted to do is bring some excitement, some nightlife, some vibrancy to it and I think we're doing a marvellous job of attaining that."

17. Close Wine Valet store sign

18. Wide interior of The Wine Valet store

19. Julie Brosterman, owner of The Wine Valet

20. SOUNDBITE (English) Julie Brosterman, owner of The Wine Valet

"There really is a community here and one of the things I love about being here is I feel like I'm adding to the life of the community, the hear the spirit. We're in the garage. We're really are the organs and the heart that beats at the base of this centre and it attracts such an eclectic mix of people from all over the world."

21. Set up of Dan Dunn, wine columnist

22. SOUNDBITE (English) Dan Dunn, wine expert and columnist

"Who wouldn't want to be out here and when they're doing events such as the one we're at this evening, it's an event for people to come out here and experience great wine and in a beautiful setting. This is it. This is the dream for people. It's Beverly Hills. I don't think they can do this enough actually. They don't do it enough. They could probably do this every weekend and people would come out for it."

23. Medium people getting food at the event

24. SOUNDBITE (English) Dan Dunn, wine expert and columnist

" Drinking wine is about the experience. It's not just about what's in the glass. It's about remembering where you were when you had it so if you're on a vineyard you're going to remember that but if you're here and this is one of the most prestigious addresses in the world and so when you come here and you're drinking wine its not just about the cabernet that's in your glass. It's about the people that are here and the beautiful people and just the shops and the scenery and the environment and being a part of that."

25. Wide of Beverly Hills palm trees

LEAD IN:

Rodeo Drive in Beverly Hills is an address synonymous with luxury, expense and glamour, but its business community that's no longer enough.

It's transforming the area into a cultural centre to attract more people to the area.

STORYLINE:

Rodeo Drive in Beverly Hills is changing its image.

The community is proud of it's reputation for expensive shops, restaurants and multi-million dollar properties and until now it's been considered to be a destination that can only the world's wealthiest can afford to enjoy.

For decades Rodeo Drive been renowned as an expensive shopping destination and it still boasts the most exclusive of designer shops including Tiffany's jewellers, Porsche and Jimmy Choo whose shoes are worn by models, actresses and rock stars

Attempts are now being made to attract a wider group of people with a series of monthly events open to everybody.

Beverly Hills mayor Barry Brucker says the community is becoming far more vibrant.

General Manager Bill Wiley says community events are bringing people in. This evening of wine tasting has been hosted by local restaurants which have provided the food and drinks.

Julie Brosterman, who owns the Wine Valet says she loves the local community and the events make her feel she is adding to the life of the community.

Wine expert and columnist Dan Dunn has become a supporter of the plans to raise the cultural profile of the community.

He says there should be more cultural events because they've become so popular they attract people into the area every weekend.

The next big event to capture the local community's imagination is a fashion show featuring celebrity's pets.

The show being held in November aims to benefit a local animal charity.

++REPLAY++

US: LUXURY GIFTS 2018

SOURCE: ASSOCIATED PRESS

RESTRICTIONS: AP CLIENTS ONLY

LENGTH: 6:18

SHOTLIST:

Associated Press

Beverly Hills, California, US - 27 November 2018

1. Close of table setting at GEARYS

2. Wide of holiday table setting

3. Pull out of holiday banners to wide of Rodeo Drive

4. Wide of 2 Rodeo and Via Rodeo

5. Wide of people on Rodeo Drive

6. Wide exterior of Gucci store

7. Pull out of Cartier store exterior

8. Set up Blair Schlecter, Vice President of Economic Development and Government Affairs for Beverly Hills Chamber of Commerce

9. SOUNDBITE (English) Blair Schlecter, Vice President of Economic Development and Government Affairs for Beverly Hills Chamber of Commerce:

"So the holiday season is looking really great. The National Retail Federation predicts an increase between 4.3 and 4.8 percent in national retail sales which is excellent and an increase over last year. Things are looking really strong. Consumers themselves say that there is going to be a 4.1 percent increase in the amount of sales they do for this holiday season so we are in really excellent shape and really excited for the holiday season."

10. Mid of shoppers at GEARYS Beverly Hills

11. Close of woman looking at gift showcase

12. Pull out exterior of GEARYS Beverly Hills

13. Wide interior of GEARYS Beverly Hills

14. Mid of woman shopping

15. Mid of MOOD by Christofle x KARL LAGERFELD ($3,500)

16. Close of cutlery inside MOOD by Christofle x KARL LAGERFELD

17. Wide of MOOD by Christofle x KARL LAGERFELD

18. Close of MOOD by Christofle x KARL LAGERFELD

19. Close of Ferrari 250 GTO by Ralph Lauren Home ($1,595)

20. Mid of Baccarat Eye Vase ($2,100)

21. Close of Baccarat Eye Vase ($750)

22. Wide of Daum Magnum Vase with Gilded Bouquet - limited edition of 25 ($25,350.00)

23. Close of Daum Magnum Vase

24. Mid of various Chanukah decorating items

25. Mid of employee and shopper on computer

26. Wide of customers with computers

27. Set up of Thomas J. Blumenthal, President and CEO of GEARYS Beverly Hills:

28. SOUNDBITE (English) Thomas J. Blumenthal, President and CEO of GEARYS Beverly Hills:

"Our online business is up about 25 percent over last year. We have invested a lot in our website this year so it's more robust and we have spent a lot more money on marketing online but I'd say our instore business is equally as strong. Our traffic is up in the stores and we're seeing lot of people and a lot of foreigners coming into the store that are shopping from out of town."

29. Wide of Christmas table setting

30. Wide of bar cart and various bar accessories

31. Mid of bartending accessories

32. Close of Tiffany & Co. exterior sign at 2 Rodeo

33. Wide exterior of Tiffany & Co. building at 2 Rodeo

34. Pull out from diamond ring to wide interior of store

35. Mid of Tiffany Paper Flowers necklace in platinum with pear-shaped and round brilliant diamonds ($790,000) and Tiffany Paper Flowers earrings in platinum with pear-shaped and round brilliant diamonds ($175,000)

36. Mid of diamond necklace

37. Close of diamond necklace

38. Close of Tiffany Paper Flowers earrings in platinum with pear-shaped and round brilliant diamonds ($175,000)

39. Close of Tiffany Paper Flowers necklace in platinum with pear-shaped, baguette and round brilliant diamonds ($310,000)

40. Mid of hand flipping through Tiffany & Co. holiday catalogue

41. Mid of Tiffany dog and cat bowls in bone china (dog: $125, cat: $75)

42. Tilt down of Tiffany pet accessories line display

43. Mid of Tiffany & Co. color-block tote ($1,500)

44. Close of pet collar in Tiffany Blue leather ($325)

45. Close of pet tote charms ($150 to $175)

46. Pull out exterior of Richard Mille store at 2 Rodeo

47. Wide interior of Richard Mille store at 2 Rodeo

48. Mid interior with display cases

49. Wide of Richard Mille video on wall

50. Mid of RM 07-01 Ladies Automatic, white gold case and solid gold bracelet, full pave diamonds ($1,955,000)

51. Close of RM 19-02 Tourbillon Fleur Piece Unique Men's Watch ($1,650,000)

52. Close side view of RM 19-02 Tourbillon Fleur Piece Unique Men's Watch ($1,650,000)

53. Close of RM 020 Tourbillon Pocket watch ($550,000)

54. Set up Alex Mille, Director of Richard Mille

55. Mid of video on wall

56. SOUNDBITE (English) Alex Mille, Director of Richard Mille:

"The main inspiration for the brand is first the automobile. You can see the brand is sweating automobile. We really love it. It's the first passion of the brand. Then you have aerospace. It's another very very important influence for us and architecture and of course art in general but the main thing that we'll always drive us for a while has always been the automobile."

57. Wide of photo of tennis champion Rafael Nadal Parera and display cases on wall.

58. Pull out of photo on wall of tennis champion Rafael Nadal Parera

59. Mid of Alex Mille and store general manager looking at watches

60. Close up of RM 19-02 Tourbillon Fleur Piece Unique Men's Watch ($1,650,000)

LEADIN:

Looking for an ultra luxurious gift this holiday season?  

The world's luxury capital Beverly Hills has plenty to choose from.

From miniature Ferraris to Tiffany & Co. bone china dog bowls there is something for everyone.

STORYLINE:

Holiday gift shopping for the person who has everything?

In the luxury capital of the world, Beverly Hills, this is the busiest time of the shopping year and luxury is on sale everywhere.

Gifts here range from the luxurious to the ultra luxurious.

Rodeo Drive which houses flagship stores of the world's biggest design houses sees shoppers wandering the streets taking in original and almost one-of-a-kind type gifts.

Blair Schlecter, Vice President of Economic Development and Government Affairs for Beverly Hills Chamber of Commerce says overall in the country, the economy is so strong that holiday sales are already reflecting consumer confidence.

"So the holiday season is looking really great. The National Retail Federation predicts an increase between 4.3 and 4.8 percent in national retail sales which is excellent and an increase over last year. Things are looking really strong. Consumers themselves say that there is going to be a 4.1 percent increase in the amount of sales they do for this holiday season so we are in really excellent shape and really excited for the holiday season."

According to the National Retail Federations' (NFR) annual holiday survey, consumers say they will spend an average of $1,007 on gifts, decoration and more this season. But in Beverly Hills that figure is taken to a whole new level for those shopping at high end stores.

Schlecter says sales tax revenue right now in Beverly Hills is already up an average of about 10 percent over the three previous quarters of the year.

Half of consumers who own smartphones or tablets said they would use them to research their holiday purchases according to the NFR survey.

Thomas J. Blumenthal, President and CEO of GEARYS Beverly Hills says there is no question that internet sales are increasing.

"Our online business is up about 25 percent over last year. We have invested a lot in our website this year so it's more robust and we have spent a lot more money on marketing online but I'd say our inshore business is equally as strong. Our traffic is up in the stores and we're seeing lot of people and a lot of foreigners coming into the store that are shopping from out of town," says Blumenthal.

At Tiffany & Co. at 2 Rodeo in Beverly Hills gift items are abundant.

And now your pet can also live the lap of luxury with the Tiffany & Co. pet collection.

Tiffany dog and cat bowls in bone china sell for $125 for a dog and $75 for a cat.

There is the Tiffany & Co. color block tote bag for $1,500 to carry your pet wares, leashes in Tiffany Blue leather for $325.00 and pet tote charms for between $150 to $175 apiece.

Richard Mille is an eponymous brand of luxury Swiss watches founded in 1999.

Known for it's 21st Century concepts these handmade watches made with the latest state of the art innovative technological materials to create light weight watches.

For $1,955,000 you can buy the lady in your life the RM 07-01 Ladies Automatic, white gold case and solid gold bracelet, with pave diamonds.

For him there is the RM 19-02 Tourbillon Fleur Piece Unique Men's Watch for $1,650,000.

Maybe he prefers a pocket watch, the RM 020 Tourbillon Pocket watch can be yours for $550,000.

Alex Mille, Director of Richard Mille says the look of the watch design is inspired by cars.

"The main inspiration for the brand is first the automobile. You can see the brand is sweating automobile. We really love it. It's the first passion of the brand. Then you have aerospace. It's another very very important influence for us and architecture and of course art in general but there in thing that we'll always drive us for a while has always been the automobile" says Mille.

Richard Mille watches are especially appealing to athletes such as Formula One drivers, pro golfers and tennis players.

Rafael Nadal Parera, world 17 Glad Slam champion tennis player and ranked No. 2 in the world, wears lightweight Richard Mille watches that the company made for him.

Celebrity endorsements of Richard Mille watches include among others Sylvester Stallone, Jackie Chan, Natalie Portman, and Pharrell Williams.

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