Hollywood Honors Quincy Jones, Bond Producers at Governors Awards.

The Governors Awards in Hollywood became a heartfelt celebration of Quincy Jones' legacy, just weeks after his passing. Despite their grief, Jones' family chose to attend the event, where he was to receive his second honorary Oscar. They were joined by other honorees, including Bond producers Barbara Broccoli and Michael G. Wilson, filmmaker Richard Curtis, and casting director Juliet Taylor.

The evening, held at the Ray Dolby Ballroom, was filled with tributes, performances, and touching moments. Jamie Foxx brought humor and warmth, while Jennifer Hudson delivered a powerful musical tribute. Rashida Jones, Quincy’s daughter, read the speech her father had been preparing, reflecting on his influential career in music that shaped decades of cultural history. “His music has literally defined a century of culture,” she said.

The star-studded audience, featuring Tom Hanks, Jennifer Lawrence, Angelina Jolie, and more, gathered for a night of celebration and reflection. The Governors Awards, hosted by the Academy's Board of Governors, also serve as an unofficial launch for the Oscars campaign season, drawing numerous celebrities and industry insiders.

Barbara Broccoli and Michael G. Wilson received the prestigious Irving G. Thalberg Memorial Award, recognizing their contributions to the James Bond franchise. Daniel Craig, who played Bond in five films, praised the producers, humorously noting that Bond films are “the most expensive independent films ever made.”

Richard Curtis, known for his iconic romantic comedies like Notting Hill and Love Actually, was honored with the Jean Hersholt Humanitarian Award for his extensive charitable work. Hugh Grant, a frequent collaborator, humorously quipped, “It’s a kind of Oscar — better than nothing.”

Juliet Taylor, a veteran casting director, was also celebrated for her four-decade career, which included classics like Annie Hall and Schindler’s List. Nicole Kidman presented her with the honorary Oscar, highlighting the significance of her work in shaping cinematic history. Taylor expressed her excitement about a new competitive Oscar category for casting directors, set to debut in 2025.

The evening concluded with a touching tribute to Quincy Jones. Rashida Jones invited attendees to listen to her father’s deep cuts, describing his legacy as one filled with love and connection through music. "He knew how to stay present, curious, and loving," she said. The event was both a celebration of his extraordinary contributions and a heartfelt farewell to a legendary figure in music and film.