Hollywood glitterati descended upon the Four Seasons Hotel in Beverly Hills on Friday, January 9, 2026, for the annual AFI Awards, a star-studded luncheon honoring the creative teams behind the year's most outstanding films and television programs. The event, known for its celebratory atmosphere and emphasis on collaboration, drew A-listers such as Leonardo DiCaprio and George Clooney, who mingled with fellow actors, directors, writers, and producers.

The AFI Awards distinguish themselves by foregoing the typical awards show format of suspenseful envelope reveals and acceptance speeches. Instead, the ceremony unfolds as a series of carefully crafted tributes, featuring eloquent rationales for each honored work, complemented by brief clips showcasing the year's cinematic and television achievements within a broader cultural context.

Leonardo DiCaprio was spotted in deep conversation with Netflix co-CEO Ted Sarandos, along with actors Benicio del Toro and Edward James Olmos. Meanwhile, George Clooney shared laughs with photographers on the red carpet, adding to the event's convivial atmosphere. The gathering provided ample opportunities for collaboration and networking, with filmmakers James Cameron and Guillermo del Toro greeting each other warmly. Steven Spielberg was seen chatting with Ryan Coogler, whose wife and "Sinners" producer, Zinzi Coogler, stood beside him. Michael B. Jordan worked the room, exchanging greetings with "Bugonia" star Jesse Plemons and "Task" actor Mark Ruffalo. Kathryn Hahn was also present at the luncheon.

This year's AFI Awards recognized a diverse range of cinematic and television accomplishments. Films honored included "Avatar: Fire and Ash," "Bugonia," "Frankenstein," "Hamnet," "Jay Kelly," "Marty Supreme," "One Battle After Another," "Sinners," "Train Dreams," and "Wicked: For Good". Television programs receiving accolades included "Adolescence," "Andor," "Death by Lightning," "The Diplomat," "The Lowdown," "The Pitt," "Severance," "The Studio," and "Task".

AFI President Bob Gazzale addressed the star-filled room, emphasizing the spirit of shared recognition and the absence of losers at the event. The ceremony concluded with a benediction from Carol Burnett, who celebrated the honorees' achievements while reflecting on her own lifelong passion for film and television.

The American Film Institute is a non-profit organization committed to championing the moving image as an art form. In addition to the AFI Awards, the institute preserves film history for future generations through initiatives such as the AFI Catalog of Feature Films and the AFI Archive. Eddie Murphy will receive the 51st AFI Life Achievement Award on April 18, 2026.