The red carpet rolled out as a prelude for the 81st annual Academy Awards Sunday with glittery appearances by some of ‘s brightest stars.
Hosts of the Red Carpet Tim Gunn and Robin Roberts, mikes in hand, stopped the stars as they walked into the Kodak Theater, fans shouting behind ropes. “It’s been a great couple of years,” said Josh Brolin, who has been nominated for best supporting actor in “Milk.” Said Taraji P. Henson, nominated for best supporting actress in “The Curious Case of Benjamin Button,” laughing and smiling, said she’s had “dresses thrown at me” when it came to deciding what to wear. The Academy of Motion Picture Arts and Sciences already has announced some awards — and already has produced controversy. , the longtime spokesman and fundraiser for the Muscular Dystrophy Association, will receive the Jean Hersholt Humanitarian Award on Sunday evening for his tireless efforts on behalf of the group. During his 43 years as host of the group’s Labor Day telethon, the organization has taken in almost $2 billion. “The Telethon is the most effective philanthropic event of its kind,” said MDA President and CEO Gerald C. Weinberg in a statement. “So it’s appropriate that the man who makes it all possible has been singled out for his matchless compassion.”
Still, some weren’t thrilled with the academy’s selection.