The Hollywood Reporter‘s Women in Entertainment event, presented by Lifetime, returned on Thursday for its annual celebration of Hollywood’s leading ladies.
Introduced with THR’s annual Women in Entertainment Power 100, and coinciding with the publication of the annual honor of Adele’s Sherry Lansing Leadership, the return event also recognized Kerry Washington’s Equity in Entertainment Award, a celebration of Adele and Kerry’s extraordinary pioneering work in the entertainment industry.
The event, held at the Beverly Hills Hotel, had Will Ferrell kicking off with a powerful remark advocating for more female leadership in the industry.
He exclaimed that since men have been controlling the show for so long, it’s high time for women to run the planet. He also shared stories from his professional life and time spent working with Adele and his recently published musical number “Rolling in the Deep.”
THR’s co-editor-in-chief Nekesa Mumbi Moody then took the stage, alongside THR President of Business Operations Joe Shields, and Executive VPs/Co-Publishers Beth Deutschman Rabishaw and Victoria Gold to congratulate the honorees.
Finally, Ariana DeBose presented Washington with the Equity in Entertainment Award. DeBose recalled how Washington inspired her to overcome traditional Hollywood stereotypes and extend her courage to a greater level. DeBose also mentioned how inspiring Kerry Washington had been for women around the world