STAR BANGLED BEN
Media-starved Ben Affleck finally got himself a little ink and attention. At least for something other than the ups and downs of living La Vida Lopez. The club-loving, card-playing, risk-taking “Gigli” star was honored by the People for the American Way at a little after-work bash at the Beverly Hilton. Hollywood hunks Harrison Ford, Bruce Willis and Hector Elizondo were among those who turned up to salute big Ben, who was presented with this year’s Champion of the American Way Award.
As this was a politically active crowd, the room was abuzz with recall talk, Sacramento hot spots and speculation about the “Governator.”
Hot topics of conversation spilled over into the dining room, where they reveled in a liberal dose of liberal one-liners.
“John Ashcroft couldn’t make it tonight, but he did send a note,” announced Paul Begala, the master of ceremonies. “Dear People, I am thrilled you are having this little meeting while my agents are at your homes going through your e-mail.”
Affleck, who eventually arrived with lovely Ms. Lo, has been known for showing his support for everyone from striking janitors to former V.P. Al Gore and Senator Hillary Clinton. Politics aside, it was actor Affleck’s on-screen heroics that hit a chord with PFAW Director Kevin Smith. “It’s about time Ben got some media recognition,” he quipped. “After all, this is a guy who saved us all from an asteroid the size of Texas.”
GIRLS, GIRLS, GIRLS!
Life was a cabaret at the third annual “Les Girls” show to benefit breast cancer research. A-listers like David Hyde Pierce, Allison Janney, Christine Lahti, William H. Macy and Rita Wilson graced the stage at the Henry Fonda Theater in Hollywood to give the crowd a bit of that old razzle dazzle.
The racy evening kicked off with a lively champagne reception and wrapped up with an all-star extravaganza of dance and song. This girly show proved an even bigger hit for The National Breast Cancer Coalition Fund, raising more than $300,000.
HOLY HOLLY!
Hard to believe, but yes, it is that time already. When Christmas lights begin to twinkle on PCH, you know that the holidays and The Nutcracker can’t be far behind. The Westside Ballet’s annual production returns to the Smothers Theatre at Pepperdine with performances on Nov. 29 and 30. Fa la la la la.