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Taika Waititi Presents Pamela Anderson amfAR Award of Courage

9/8/2026

17 3 Full Breakdown

Summary

Pamela Anderson Makeup-Free

Pamela Anderson received amfAR’s Award of Courage at the amfAR Gala Venezia in Italy.
She attended the gala without makeup, showcasing her natural complexion and freckles.
Anderson follows a simple routine of moisturizer, humidifier, rose-water spray and markets vegan products via Sonsie.
Later that week Anderson attended the Golden Lion ceremony for Ellen Burstyn, wearing leopard-printed pumps and a lavender blouse.

Summary

Simon de Pury Auctions

Simon de Pury led the gala auction, selling Warhol “Flowers” for €160,000 ($185,000).
Marina Abramovic’s “Abramovic Method” package, including a private lunch, raised €500,000 ($580,000).
Abramovic received the Award of Inspiration, presented by Orlando Bloom.
Taika Waititi presented Anderson’s Award of Courage, tying the gala’s philanthropy to its film program.

History

Historical Context

The Venice Film Festival revived after WWII and launched the Golden Lion of Saint Mark in 1949, first awarding it to Clouzot’s *Manon*. A 1969-1979 hiatus after 1968 unrest ended, and a Lifetime Achievement prize began in 1971, cementing its prestige. In 2024 the festival merged film honors with charity, featuring Pamela Anderson’s amfAR Award of Courage and Ellen Burstyn receiving a Golden Lion from Taika Waititi.

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Pamela Anderson Makeup-Free

Pamela Anderson received amfAR’s Award of Courage at the amfAR Gala Venezia in Italy.
She attended the gala without makeup, showcasing her natural complexion and freckles.
Anderson follows a simple routine of moisturizer, humidifier, rose-water spray and markets vegan products via Sonsie.
Later that week Anderson attended the Golden Lion ceremony for Ellen Burstyn, wearing leopard-printed pumps and a lavender blouse.

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