Los Angeles, CA — The entertainment industry turned its spotlight toward advocacy, leadership and humanitarian work Wednesday night as Variety hosted its annual Power of Women event presented by Lifetime, celebrating voices driving real change beyond the screen. Held at the iconic Beverly Hills Hotel and hosted by comedian Iliza Shlesinger, the ceremony honored five influential women whose work has inspired movements across media, sports, philanthropy and social justice.
The evening opened with remarks from Variety’s editorial leadership, followed by a warm welcome from outgoing publisher Michelle Sobrino-Stearns. But applause quickly shifted toward the night’s first honoree, actor and producer Kate Hudson, introduced by close friend Octavia Spencer. Hudson reflected on motherhood, imagination, and the responsibility of artists to extend their impact far beyond storytelling.
“We make people feel seen. But the work can’t stop when the cameras turn off,” Hudson said. “At the end of the day, it’s the faces and laughter that remind us goodness exists.”
Following Hudson, Euphoria star Sydney Sweeney took the stage, introduced by Sharon Stone. Sweeney focused on her role as legendary boxer Christy Martin in the upcoming biopic Christy — drawing parallels between Martin’s resilience and the constant pressure women face in Hollywood.
“Every one of us has our own fight,” Sweeney said. “Surviving isn’t the end of the story — it’s the beginning of reclaiming it.”
The night also included the Variety Courage Award, presented to Olympic gymnast Aly Raisman by teammate Jordan Chiles. Raisman used her platform to address the millions affected by abuse and unsafe homes.
“There are so many who’ve never been told their voice matters,” she said, receiving one of the event’s most emotional responses.
Comedian actress Wanda Sykes, introduced by Jane Fonda, offered sharp commentary on the looming expiration of SNAP benefits amid federal funding tensions — a potential crisis for single mothers nationwide.
“When women win, everyone wins,” Sykes said. “But government cuts don’t just reduce services — they cut dignity.”
Singer and performer Nicole Scherzinger was honored next, with support from Eva Longoria, highlighting her extensive work with the Special Olympics.
“These athletes redefine what’s possible,” she said. “Power is not medals — it’s showing up with your whole heart.”
The ceremony closed with Oscar-winner Jamie Lee Curtis, introduced by Suzanne Yankovic, shining a spotlight on Children’s Hospital Los Angeles. Curtis raised concerns about funding shortfalls — and a quieter fear: patients avoiding care due to immigration enforcement pressures.
“People are afraid they’ll be picked up by ICE,” Curtis warned. “Cuts are devastating. Every nurse, every specialist, every mother who walks through those doors — that is the power of women.”
Curtis ended her speech with a personal mantra displayed in her kitchen:
“To live is to learn. To learn is to know. To know is to grow. To grow is to give. To give is to live.”
The 2025 Power of Women honored artistry, activism and compassion — but more importantly, urged the industry to keep fighting when the spotlight fades.