On October 29th, The Plaza Hotel welcomes New York’s industry insiders, creatives, and more gathered for the Princess Grace Foundation and the USA’s legendary Princess Grace Awards Gala—presided over by H.S.H. Prince Albert II of Monaco. The evening upheld Princess Grace’s enduring commitment to the arts and philanthropy, recognizing 25 rising talents across theater, dance, and film.
This year’s spotlight belonged to the critically-acclaimed filmmaker Jon M. Chu (Crazy Rich Asians, Wicked), who received the prestigious Prince Rainier III Award—becoming the first-ever previous Princess Grace Award winner (Film, 2001) to earn the distinction. More than two decades ago, Chu was a student at USC, dreaming up a musical short film for his thesis. The Foundation saw his spark early, awarding him a Princess Grace Award that set the stage for his remarkable rise. Now, as a director reshaping the modern cinematic landscape, Chu comes home to the very organization that helped launch his journey. In a poetic gesture, the $25,000 grant that accompanies the award will benefit the Princess Grace Foundation-USA itself.
“Over 20 years ago, the Princess Grace Foundation opened a door for me at a time when few others would,” said Chu. “To now receive the Prince Rainier III Award…is a profoundly humbling reminder that I’m still part of that family and continuing the cycle of support she began.”
The evening brought together a star-studded guest list: Constance Wu served as host; Paul Tazewell (Oscar-winning costume designer, Wicked) presented the 2025 Statue Awards; and attendees included Bowen Yang, Isabella Boylston, Jessica Vosk, Sky Hopinka, Rosanna Arquette, Tiler Peck, Roman Mejia, and Stephen Schwartz. Between performances, tributes, and champagne toasts, the ballroom was a world of inspiration. This year also marked two milestones—the 70th anniversary of Princess Grace’s Oscar win for The Country Girl, and the 20th anniversary of the Prince Rainier III Award, established in memory of Prince Rainier III of Monaco.
“It is a profound honor for My family and Myself to uphold My Mother’s commitment to the arts and philanthropy,” said Prince Albert II. “To mark this milestone by presenting the Prince Rainier III Award to Jon M. Chu—whose artistic achievements and generosity are both exceptional—is a fitting tribute.”
