Stars Gather for Chanel and Charles Finch's 17th Pre-Oscar Dinner

On March 14, 2026, the iconic Polo Lounge at The Beverly Hills Hotel hosted the 17th annual pre-Oscar dinner co-hosted by Chanel and film producer Charles Finch. The event attracted numerous celebrities, including Teyana Taylor, Mick Jagger, Kristen Stewart, and Jessie Buckley, who is favored to win the Best Actress award for her role in "Hamnet." Buckley described the intimate atmosphere, noting, “It’s like a prelude to tomorrow, right?” as she mingled with fellow nominees and industry insiders.

Jessie Buckley dazzles at Chanel pre-Oscars bash alongside Hollywood A-listers

The evening featured a mix of Oscar nominees, winners, and filmmakers, with guests such as Jeff Bezos, Sigourney Weaver, and Nicole Kidman engaging in lively conversations. Maggie Kang, co-director of the animated film "KPop Demon Hunters," expressed her excitement for the upcoming ceremony, highlighting the anticipated performance of the film's hit song "Golden," which she described as “epic” and “a big cultural moment.”

Chanel has maintained a long-standing relationship with the film industry, dating back to 1931 when founder Gabrielle Chanel was invited to Hollywood to design dresses for stars like Gloria Swanson. Over the decades, Chanel has collaborated with various filmmakers and supported independent cinema, including Stewart's directorial debut. Finch emphasized the dinner's purpose, stating, “Being on a film set reminds you that cinema is a universal language,” and underscored the importance of celebrating storytelling and the storytellers behind the magic.

UsNews and World ReportJessie Buckley dazzles at Chanel pre-Oscars bash alongside Hollywood A-listersRTE (Radio Television of Ireland)Hollywood ReporterJessie Buckley elegant in Chanel at glam pre-Oscars dinner

Jessie Buckley turned heads in a Matthieu Blazy-designed gown, which sparked mixed reactions on social media, with some fans comparing it to "grandmother pajamas." Despite the divided opinions, Buckley expressed her enthusiasm for the event, quipping, “Well, you can sleep when you’re dead!” Other notable attendees included Lily-Rose Depp, who wore a sheer gray gown, and Nicole Kidman, who opted for a cream tweed ensemble.

Jessie Buckley dazzles at Chanel pre-Oscars bash alongside Hollywood A-listers

While the event celebrated cinematic achievements, it also highlighted the pressures and scrutiny faced by nominees. Buckley’s outfit choice drew criticism from some fans, reflecting the high expectations placed on celebrities during award season. However, many attendees embraced the celebratory spirit of the evening, focusing on the camaraderie and shared experiences among industry peers.

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As the 98th Academy Awards approached, anticipation built around potential historic wins. Notably, Ryan Coogler could become the first Black director to win both directing and producing honors in a single night, while Timothée Chalamet aimed to be the first male performer to secure both acting and producing wins. The pre-Oscar dinner served as a fitting lead-up to a night that promises to be filled with significant moments in film history.

Jessie Buckley dazzles at Chanel pre-Oscars bash alongside Hollywood A-listers

• “It’s like a prelude to tomorrow, right?” — Jessie Buckley, Actress

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• “Being on a film set reminds you that cinema is a universal language.” — Charles Finch, Film Producer

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• “I had tears just watching the rehearsal. It was really amazing. It’s going to be a big cultural moment.” — Maggie Kang, Co-Director of "KPop Demon Hunters."

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