At The Plaza in New York City, the Princess Grace Foundation-USA’s legendary Princess Grace Awards Gala was presided over by H.S.H. Prince Albert II of Monaco, upholding his Mother’s commitment to the arts and philanthropy. The event, hosted by Actress Constance Wu, recognized 25 rising stars in theater, dance, and film. Jon M. Chu, filmmaker, received the Prince Rainier III Award, becoming the only previous Princess Grace Award winner (Film, 2001) to earn this distinction. The award was presented to Mr. Chu by musical composer/lyricist Stephen Schwartz and Emmy-nominated comedian, actor, and writer Bowen Yang.
Jon M. Chu was first recognized by the Princess Grace Foundation-USA with a Princess Grace Award in 2001 while still a student at the University of Southern California, with a vision to create a musical short film for his thesis. Since then, his extraordinary journey as a director and entertainment leader has shaped the landscape of modern cinema. The Prince Rainier III Award includes a grant of $25,000 to the philanthropic organization of the recipient’s choice. Mr. Chu has chosen for his grant to benefit Princess Grace Foundation-USA. Since the first Princess Grace Awards in 1984, the Foundation has given more than $19 million to 900+ recipients.
This year marks the 70th Anniversary of Princess Grace’s Oscar Win for Country Girl. It also marked the 20th Anniversary of the Prince Rainier III Award, which commemorates the memory of Prince Rainier III of Monaco (Princess Grace’s Husband), who established the Foundation as a public charity in memory of Princess Grace of Monaco. It is the highest honor celebrated at the Foundation’s Princess Grace Awards Gala, bestowed upon an entertainment luminary whose prestigious career is matched with philanthropic service.
Prince Albert II of Monaco said of Jon M. Chu: “It is a profound honor for My family and Myself to uphold My Mother’s commitment to the arts and philanthropy. This year marks the 70th anniversary of her Academy Award for The Country Girl. To mark this milestone by presenting the Prince Rainier III Award to Jon M. Chu—whose artistic achievements and generosity are both exceptional—is a fitting tribute. It gives Me great joy to preside over this legendary event, celebrating Jon and Princess Grace Award winners whose artistry will shape the future of the entertainment industries.”
"Over 20 years ago, the Princess Grace Foundation opened a door for me at a time when few others would and, in doing so, made me feel like I was part of a larger artistic family: one built on generosity, grace, and belief in potential. Princess Grace’s legacy of nurturing young artists shaped the very foundation of my career. To now receive the Prince Rainier III Award, which honors not just artistic excellence but a commitment to giving back, is a profoundly humbling reminder that I’m still part of that family and continuing the cycle of support she began,” Jon M. Chu stated.
“Jon’s work has exemplified a dedication to artistry and storytelling, demonstrating the very spirit of craftsmanship that we celebrate through the Princess Grace Foundation. This marks the first time the Foundation will bestow the Prince Rainier III Award on a previous Princess Grace Award winner—underscoring both Jon’s singular talent and the promise our program has long nurtured,” stated Diana Kemppainen, President, Princess Grace Foundation-USA.
Image credit: Jared Siskin, Patrick McMullan
