Lizzo Rocks Cannes Gala, Helps amfAR Raise $20 Million for AIDS Research

The Hôtel du Cap-Eden-Roc in Antibes, France, was buzzing on May 21, 2026, as the 32nd annual amfAR Cannes Gala brought together a dazzling array of stars for a crucial cause. Grammy and Emmy-winning artist Lizzo kicked off the evening with a high-energy performance, helping to raise an estimated $20 million for AIDS research—the highest total for the gala since 2016.

Lizzo, who was a last-minute addition to the lineup, captivated the A-list audience with her Grammy-winning hit "About Damn Time" and her newest single, "Don't Make Me Love U." Dressed in a striking cobalt blue gown by Robert Wun, she also used the red carpet moment to tease her upcoming album, titled "B*tch," slated for release on June 5, 2026. Reports indicate that paparazzi clamored for her attention, with a video of the scene circulating online.

The annual black-tie event, a highlight of the Cannes Film Festival season, continued its tradition of combining celebrity power with philanthropic efforts. Hosted by Academy Award-winning actor Geena Davis, who returned to amfAR after nearly three decades, the gala underscored the urgency of the organization's mission. Davis, whose iconic image graces this year's Cannes Film Festival poster as a tribute to "Thelma & Louise," opened the program by stating, "What once seemed impossible – a cure for HIV – is now within reach. Tonight, we have gathered here to help make sure amfAR has the funds it needs to continue to charge the path toward that goal: an end to AIDS."

The night featured additional musical acts, including multi-Brit Award-winning artist Robbie Williams, who performed a medley of his hits like "Let Me Entertain You" and "Angels," the latter dedicated to his daughter. Grammy-nominated Swedish singer Zara Larsson closed the dinner portion, encouraging guests to dance. Notable attendees included Oscar winner Rami Malek, Eva Longoria, "Summer House" star Ciara Miller, supermodel Heidi Klum, Ira Sachs, Robin Thicke, April Thicke, Sofia Carson, Kyle Kuzma, Adrian Grenier, and rapper Gunna, among many other public figures and industry leaders.

A significant backdrop to the gala was the recent premiere of Rami Malek's film, "The Man I Love," directed by Ira Sachs. The musical fantasy drama, set in late 1980s New York City, tells the story of Jimmy George, a celebrated theater actor facing AIDS complications. The film, which premiered at the 79th Cannes Film Festival on May 20, 2026, received an emotional standing ovation lasting nearly nine minutes. Malek reflected on the experience at the amfAR Gala, stating, "It was extraordinary, if it's once in a lifetime, I will take it. Just being here is once in a lifetime; if it happens again, glorious. I feel humble, I feel honored, I feel very human. I'm grateful." Director Ira Sachs added, "This is a film about what we can bring to each other through art, through love, through pain, through memory."

At the heart of the fundraising efforts was amfAR CEO Kyle Clifford, the first openly HIV-positive person to lead the organization. Clifford, who took on the CEO role on January 1, 2026, after serving as Chief Development Officer since 2020, shared a deeply personal connection to the cause. From the stage, he revealed, "This is an organization whose research has kept me alive for 40 years." He further elaborated on amfAR's critical function, emphasizing, "What makes amfAR truly unique is this: we are the first to say 'yes,'... That is exactly what amfAR does for scientists. We help launch the ideas and discoveries others are not yet ready to back." Clifford also credited amfAR's research with providing him hope following his own HIV diagnosis.

The live auction, expertly led by renowned auctioneer Simon de Pury, featured an impressive collection of luxury items and contemporary art that drove much of the evening's success. Among the highlights were a full set of Andy Warhol's iconic Marilyn Monroe screenprints, which fetched 2.8 million euros (approximately $3,252,228). A limited-edition Audemars Piguet watch, one of only five ever made, sold for 1,450,000 euros (about $1,684,160), and Chopard, a festival sponsor, contributed diamond earrings that went for 600,000 euros (around $696,906).

Other notable auction items included a custom Denza car designed in collaboration with Chopard, a Philip Colbert sculpture titled "Reclining Lobster," and a seven-day private Arctic expedition. Actor William Abadie, a star of "Emily in Paris," auctioned off a walk-on role in the popular show's sixth and final season, with two opportunities ultimately selling for 375,000 euros (approximately $435,545) each. The evening also showcased an "IDOLS" Collection fashion show, curated by Carine Roitfeld, which paid homage to iconic personalities from film, art, and music, featuring all-latex couture by Atsuko Kudo and Haute Joaillerie by Chopard.

amfAR, The Foundation for AIDS Research, has been a driving force in the fight against AIDS since its establishment in 1985. The organization is committed to ending the global epidemic through innovative research, HIV prevention, treatment education, and advocacy. Historically, the Cannes Gala alone has contributed over $300 million to these research efforts, making it a cornerstone of the global response to HIV/AIDS. The latest gala's significant fundraising total reaffirms the continued commitment of the entertainment industry and philanthropists to this vital cause, pushing closer to a future free from AIDS.