Celebrating 50 Years of Empowering Women in Media at the 50th Annual Gracie Awards

The 50th Annual Gracie Awards: A Night of Celebration and Empowerment

On May 21, 2025, the Alliance for Women in Media Foundation (AWMF) commemorated a significant milestone with its 50th Annual Gracie Awards, held at the illustrious Beverly Wilshire Hotel in Los Angeles. This event not only celebrated the achievements of women in the media industry but also symbolized five decades of empowerment and advocacy for inclusive representation in the media landscape.

Hosted by comedian and actress Fortune Feimster, the evening was filled with laughter, heartfelt moments, and emotional tributes. Feimster brought her characteristic humor to the stage, emphasizing the importance of representation for women in media. “Let’s talk about the importance of representation. When I was a kid, there was no ‘Will and Grace,’ there was no ‘Xena the Warrior Princess.’ Representation matters,” she declared, reminding attendees of how critical it is for all voices to be heard and seen in the media.

The Night's Highlights

The celebration was marked by captivating performances, notably from Grammy-winning artist Cam, who brought down the house with an electrifying musical showcase. Cam’s presence not only added to the festivities but also served as a reminder of the talented women who continue to influence and shape the entertainment industry.

This year’s Gracie Awards set a record with 160 winners across various categories, highlighting the diverse voices and stories that are pivotal in today’s media. Notable winners included Hunter King, Jaime Kern Lima, Norah O'Donnell, and Lisa Ling, all of whom were in attendance to receive their accolades among an audience that included cultural icons and influential figures from the industry.

The list of presenters read like a who’s who of Hollywood, featuring the likes of Jimmy Kimmel, Christina Hendricks, and Monica Lewinsky, who contributed to the warmth and celebration of women's accomplishments. Kimmel's witty presentation of the award to his wife, Molly McNearney, added a personal touch to the evening’s festivities, as he humorously acknowledged her dedication both at home and in her advocacy work for women’s rights in media.

Powerful Acceptance Speeches

Among the most poignant moments was the presentation of the inaugural Gracie Award for Best Women's Health News Feature, awarded to Sara Sidner for her impactful series,