Last night, Hollywood’s elite gathered at the prestigious Beverly Hills Hotel for Jhpiego’s Laughter Is the Best Medicine Gala, a night of glamour, laughter, and advocacy. The evening announced actress, producer, activist, and best-selling author Gabrielle Union as Jhpiego’s 2026 Global Ambassador and honored award-winning journalist and producer Soledad O’Brien and her husband Brad Raymond for their outstanding commitment to women’s health and empowerment worldwide. The gala also recognized Monique and Melvin Rodriguez for their philanthropic contributions and former Pfizer Foundation representative Caroline Roan with the Visionary Award.
The red carpet was alive with energy. Gabrielle Union led a playful girls’ night out with girlfriend Tia Mowry, Robin Thede, and Nicole Lyn, laughing, joking, and posing together. Comedian Michelle Buteau brought her signature energy, keeping the fun going and later delivering a standout stand-up set that had the crowd roaring.
It was also a date night for Tara Lipinski and husband Todd Kapostasy alongside new couple Anthony Anderson and Rocsi Diaz who were hand-in-hand throughout the evening. Olympian Jordan Chiles also joined the festivities, adding to the star-studded crowd celebrating safe surgery and motherhood.
Highlights of the program included Gabrielle Union’s powerful remarks as Jhpiego’s Global Ambassador, sharing personal moments from her motherhood journey and spotlighting the organization’s work to expand access to care for women worldwide. Soledad O’Brien and Brad Raymond accepted the Global Humanitarian Award, reflecting on how storytelling and philanthropic leadership have created meaningful impact in underserved communities. A moving tribute followed as Dr. Leslie Mancuso was presented with The Sheela Murthy Champion for Women Award, honoring her 25 years of transformative leadership at Jhpiego. The tribute video left many attendees in tears, culminating in a standing ovation.
The evening closed on an unforgettable high note when Grammy-nominated Aloe Blacc performed an epic rendition of Lean on Me, getting the entire ballroom on its feet!
