What if you gave a party and no one’s heard of the people who showed up?
Seems like that’s what happened last night in Hollywood when Vanity Fair threw a pre-Oscar opening at the Wallis Annenberg Center. This is the space they rent for the weekend, so why not maximize the effort?
But only three actual stars showed up: Sharon Stone, Charlize Theron, and Demi Moore. In the novelty tier was Caitlyn Jenner. And then? I’ve never heard of the people they photographed on the red carpet. I’m sure they’re lovely, but really. Things were so bad that one of the photos taken was a close up of a ring on the hand of Ashley Greene (not sure who she is). It’s not the days of Graydon, that’s for sure. Most celebrities will use Sunday’s Vanity Fair party as a photo op before they whisk away to grander adventures.
All of which points to Sunday night, when Elton John’s AIDS Foundation dinner will be the center of attention following the Oscars. This is especially true if Elton wins the Oscar for Best Song, from “Rocketman.” Elton, Bernie Taupin, and David Furnish will arrive from the Academy Awards as heroes, and I’m sure Elton will want to play “(I’m Gonna) Love Me Again” for his star studded guests. Burgeoning star Sam Fender will entertain the crowd until the conquering heroes arrive.
Other parties Sunday include Byron Allen’s now traditional gathering at the Beverly Wilshire, with performances from Jamie Foxx and Maroon 5; a Netflix do that’s private (licking wounds, perhaps, press isn’t invited), Warner Bros. celebrating “Joker,” and Jay Z’s taking over of the Chateau Marmont garage — yes, garage– with Beyonce, of course, and who knows?
The Party No One Can Get Into: Madonna’s deal after midnight. Of course, Madonna won’t be there. You know she’s in London trying not to miss performances of her “Madame X” show. But the celebs will troop up there, like Leo and Brad, etc. And we’ll get reports the next day of festivities ending at 4am.