On April 17, 2024 Time revealed its annual list of the 100 most influential people in the world and the 18th annual gala aired tonight on ABC. The dinner party guests include those listed along with other celebrities. What is amazing about this list is that actors, singers and entertainers are not just honored but scientists and activists as well.
Hosted by Taraji P. Henson with New York City as the backdrop, the gala featured an opening performance by award winning songstress Fantasia Barrino who took us to church. Maya Rudolph gave the first toast of the night and honored the incomparable Beyonce and praised her work on her newest album Cowboy Carter. She highlighted how the album is meant to battle racism and make space for her in a genre that some feel that she does not belong.
TIME100: THE WORLD’S MOST INFLUENTIAL PEOPLE, Pictured: Fantasia Barrino Photo: Getty Images/ABC ©2024 Disney. All Rights Reserved
Next was Patrick Mahomes, introduced by 21 Savage, honoring women’s sport finally getting the attention that the athletes deserve. Having this Super Bowl champion give A’ja Wilson her flowers was spot on. Another Super Bowl champion, Tom Brady campaigned for induction. It was amazing to see her and women’s sports be recognized on such a big platform.
Billy Porter introduced Kelley Robinson who gave an impassioned speech about LGBTQIA+ rights. Kelley is the first black queer woman to lead the Human Rights campaign. She ended her speech with raising a glass to joy which is the perfect word to describe the work she is accomplishing. Kylie Minogue and Da’Vine Joy Randolph introduced the next musical performer, Dua Lipa who got the audience on their feet to dance.
Michael J. Fox was presented with the TIME Impact Award.
Michael J. Fox has raised more than $2 billion dollars for research to fight Parkinson’s Disease. He is an inspiration to those with the disease to keep fighting and for others to help fight. He gave a moving speech and has always had a great attitude about his diagnosis.
TIME100: THE WORLD’S MOST INFLUENTIAL PEOPLE, Pictured: Willie Geist and Michael J. Fox Photo: Getty Images/ABC ©2024 Disney. All Rights Reserved
Host Taraji P. Henson had a package where she explained how she takes on roles and how being a woman of color impacts her world and career. She explained how she fights for her joy everyday. Joy is a theme throughout the night and as a viewer you could not help but feel joy after hearing all the inspirational speeches and stories from the attendees.
Colman Domingo looked amazing as usual as he gave his toast to his friend Rodney and closing out the show was another performance by the talented Dua Lipa. We were only treated to an hour and heard from a handful of those honored but what we did get to see was enjoyable. This event felt more powerful in that it honored people really making a change and a difference in the world.
What was your favorite moment? Leave a comment and remember to connect with me on X @jereereviews.
About the Author – Je-Ree Olenik
Je-Ree is the definition of a Jersey Girl. A true nerd who loves her comics. When not watching tv she is a paralegal by day. She loves writing, reading, binging all the newest shows and spending time with her family. Twitter @jereereviews
