At the 2026 National Board of Review Awards Gala in New York City, filmmakers Ryan Coogler and Laura Poitras addressed the killing of Renee Good. The event also featured director Jafar Panahi speaking on issues in Iran. Celebrities including Michael B. Jordan and Leonardo DiCaprio attended the gathering.
The 2026 National Board of Review Awards Gala took place at Cipriani 42nd Street in New York City, drawing prominent figures from the film industry. During the event, director Ryan Coogler and documentary filmmaker Laura Poitras spoke about the killing of Renee Good, a topic that highlighted social issues within the entertainment discourse. Separately, Iranian director Jafar Panahi addressed concerns related to Iran, adding an international dimension to the evening's conversations.
The gala served as a key stop in the early awards season calendar, following events like the Palm Springs International Film Festival and preceding the Golden Globes. Attendees included actors Michael B. Jordan, Emily Blunt, Benicio del Toro, and Leonardo DiCaprio, who was photographed with Louisa Jacobson. Other notable presences were Paul Thomas Anderson and Chase Infiniti, who joined in celebrations at the venue.
This gathering underscored the National Board of Review's role in recognizing cinematic achievements while providing a platform for broader discussions. The event's timing in mid-January positioned it amid a flurry of January 2026 red carpet appearances, emphasizing the industry's focus on both accolades and advocacy.
