The amfAR Gala in Cannes, France may be the only social event that can rival the Met Gala. Held during the Cannes Film Festival at the sprawling Hôtel du Cap-Eden-Roc, the event raises money for AIDS research. As guests were reminded several times during the evening of May 25, HIV is not extinct (in 2021, about 38 million people were living with the virus).
There were so many models and actors that the red carpet (which was actually blue) lasted more than three hours. Some dispensed with the photographers altogether and were fashionably late.
Orlando Bloom has been spotted queuing for the toilet (yes, even celebrities have to wait in line). Lucien Laviscount (Alfie in Emily in Paris) appeared at his table after appetizers, accompanied by actor Aidan Walsh, a close friend. (“I haven’t been to ‘Bridgerton,'” said Mr. Laviscount, laughing.)
They started drinking wine, supplied by Gerard Bertrand, a French winemaker who makes Hampton Water for Jon Bon Jovi and one of the most expensive rosés in the world, before moving on to tequila shots. A handle has been added to each table for convenience. That was free, unlike the phone chargers, which you could bring to your seat for 150 euros ($160).
Queen Latifah hosted the event, which opened with a performance by Gladys Knight. Later that night, Adam Lambert belted out “Who Wants to Live Forever” in tribute to Tina Turner. Simon de Pury auctioned off items including a luxury sports car and a painting by an 11-year-old.
The celebrations lasted into the early hours and participants danced under the stars overlooking the Mediterranean Sea. In the interviews below, some of them playfully answered questions about the Cannes Film Festival, Success, and the debt ceiling.
Coco Rocha
Model
What’s the least glamorous thing about Cannes?
People think you arrive on those gorgeous red carpets with champagne in your hair and makeup, but the logistics can be very stressful and kind of crazy. We even have to take care of things like: do we have the tickets?
If you could solve one problem in the world, what would it be?
I’ve been a model for 20 years and especially early in my career mental health wasn’t an issue. I know we’re talking a lot more about mental health now, but I want us to talk even more about why it’s okay to feel the way we are.
Any advice on negotiating the debt ceiling?
How does money work?
Are you on Twitter?
I am. Before, as models, we didn’t feel like we had a voice. A reporter would just write things about us. Now we and anyone who wants to have a voice through social media and I think that’s important.
Bebe Rexha
Singer
What’s the least glamorous thing about Cannes?
I literally wear a spanx so tight I can’t breathe and a corset over another corset.
If you could solve one problem in the world, what would it be?
As someone with a mental illness, it pains me constantly to know that I can afford mental health care but my fans can’t. We have to work on that.
Any advice on negotiating the debt ceiling?
I’m not going to give advice on this because I’m not the best when it comes to money. I keep my fingers and toes crossed. It’s really scary.
Heidi Klum and Tom Kaulitz
model and guitarist
What’s the least glamorous thing about Cannes?
Ms. Klum: For me it’s all glamorous.
Herr Kaulitz: The non-glamorous part is sitting in the car for a while. Traffic aside, Cannes is beautiful.
If you could solve one problem in the world, what would it be?
Ms. Klum: That’s too big a question. Let’s try to kill one disease at a time. We’ll start with this topic, AIDS, while we’re here today.
Where are you going after that?
Mrs. Klum: The after party takes place in our hotel room. There are all these parties. People want to chat and meet people, but I really don’t want to meet anyone. I’ve already met “the one” and I want to be with him.
Herr Kaulitz: We are happily married and always want to go to our hotel room in the evening.
Where will you be for the “Succession” finale on Sunday?
Ms. Klum: I don’t watch TV.
Herr Kaulitz: I haven’t started the new season yet. I’m waiting for the full season to come out and then I’ll watch it straight away.
Rebel Wilson
actress
What’s the least glamorous thing about Cannes?
We saw a 30 minute line of people trying to get in. Luckily we were able to bypass them.
Where are you going after that?
I’m a mom now, so a bit like Cinderella. I try to go to bed at midnight.
where did you go last night
I’m directing a movie, so we had a big event on my boss’ backyard. It went on until people jumped into the water.
Jasmine Tookes
Model
What’s the least glamorous thing about Cannes?
I have nipple covers on my toes. I had to find something to heal my feet. They are mushy and sticky.
Where will you be for the “Succession” finale on Sunday?
I’ve seen a few episodes. I know everyone is waiting for the final, but I’m not there.
Are you on Twitter?
I’m in but haven’t used it in years. I’m on Instagram, Snapchat. I’m a visual person.
Jessica Wang
fashion blogger
What’s the least glamorous thing about Cannes?
Traffic. There are times when you’re stuck there for an hour when you could walk there in five minutes. The adrenaline keeps you pumping while you wait.
If you could solve one problem in the world, what would it be?
Poverty, especially for children. I have two kids so that’s definitely something I don’t want to see.
Where will you be for the “Succession” finale on Sunday?
I haven’t seen “Succession” and I don’t intend to. I don’t feel left out. Everyone has different tastes.
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