HOLLYWOOD SHOWSTOPPERS! Black Excellence Shines at the Academy Museum 5th Annual Gala — Tessa Thompson, Viola Davis, Lupita Nyong’o & More STUN on the Red Carpet
Last night was pure glamour overload in Hollywood as the stars came out for the Academy Museum’s 5th Annual Gala in Partnership with Rolex — and the ladies did not come to play. Media Take Out was front and center, and let’s just say this year’s red carpet looked more like a high-fashion runway than a charity gala.
Tessa Thompson Floats in Sunshine Yellow
Tessa Thompson glowed like literal sunshine in a flowing yellow gown that moved effortlessly with every step. The Creed star looked radiant and ethereal — proving yet again that no one mixes bold color and old-Hollywood charm quite like she does.
Viola Davis Serves Royal Energy
Queen Viola Davis owned the carpet in a violet full-length gown, perfectly fitted and dripping in elegance. The Woman King actress continues to prove that confidence and class are the ultimate accessories. She walked like the Oscar winner she is — poised, powerful, and unbothered.

Regina Hall Was a Walking Green Dream
Regina Hall brought a major pop of color to the night with her fluorescent green gown — long sleeves, plunging neckline, and all the right drama. It was sophisticated, sexy, and pure red carpet perfection.
Lupita Nyong’o Brings That Figure & Flair
Lupita Nyong’o did what Lupita does — stole attention without even trying. The Black Panther star showcased her incredible figure in a sleek black gown that was equal parts modern and timeless. The fit, ...ure, the glow — everything about Lupita screamed movie star.
Gabrielle Union: Old Hollywood Glam
Gabrielle Union gave us classic Black Hollywood glam in a rich black gown that shimmered with subtle sparkle. The actress and entrepreneur looked elegant and radiant, reminding everyone why she’s always a red-carpet favorite.
Zoe Saldana Looked Like a Runway Model
Zoe Saldana stepped out in a floor-length black gown, dripping in sophistication and grace. With her statuesque frame and effortless confidence, Zoe was giving supermodel meets silver screen siren.
Jennifer Hudson Brings the Drama
Jennifer Hudson didn’t just show up — she shut it down. The EGOT queen wore an over-the-top black gown that combined drama, volume, and grace. Every inch of her look screamed “star power.”
Ava DuVernay’s Red Pop Moment
Director Ava DuVernay gave fashion a filmmaker’s flair — in a black gown with a pop of red, perfectly complementing her warm complexion and signature locs. It was understated yet commanding, much like Ava herself.
Zoe Kravitz Was the Moment
Zoe Kravitz stole the entire show. She floated across the carpet in a gorgeous puffy brown gown, looking like a living piece of art. The muted color, the structure, the attitude — it was pure Zoe energy: cool, chic, and flawless.
Laura Harrier & Ayo Edebiri Close Out the Night in Style
Laura Harrier — still one of the most beautiful women in Hollywood — stunned in a classic black gown that balanced simplicity with sensuality. And The Bear star Ayo Edebiri was a standout in a multicolor gown that blended sophistication with a playful twist.
From vibrant gowns to timeless elegance, the night belonged to Black Hollywood royalty. If this was a preview of awards season fashion … we’re in for a year of unmatched style and power.