By Valerie Milano and Jason Thompson
Beverly Hills, CA (The Hollywood Times) 5/1/25 – It was a night of star power, heartfelt tributes, and unwavering commitment to advocacy as Hollywood’s elite gathered at the Beverly Wilshire this evening for the Alliance for Children’s Rights 33rd Annual Champions for Children Gala. A-listers, media executives, legal heavyweights, and changemakers united under one roof to support a mission that remains more vital than ever: protecting the rights and futures of children and young adults in foster care.
(photo: Benjamin Shmikler/ABImages)
Hosted by It’s Always Sunny in Philadelphia stars Rob McElhenney and Kaitlin Olson, the evening unfolded with warmth and sharp comedic flair, perfectly balancing levity with the night’s powerful purpose. The couple, celebrated not only for their TV accomplishments but also for their passionate off-screen endeavors—including McElhenney’s Emmy-winning docuseries Welcome to Wrexham—lent their charm and star wattage to the cause.
The spotlight turned emotional as actress, writer, and filmmaker Ally Walker and FX Chairman John Landgraf received the 2025 Champions for Children Award. The honor was presented by none other than screen legend Danny DeVito, whose trademark humor and heartfelt admiration set the tone for a tribute that resonated deeply. DeVito’s longtime partner, actress Rhea Perlman, was also in attendance, adding further nostalgic sparkle to the evening.
Walker, known for her trailblazing work both in front of and behind the camera, used her acceptance speech to call for more industry engagement in advocacy: “Storytelling has the power to change lives, but tonight is about making sure every child has the opportunity to live their own story—with dignity, with rights, and with hope.”
Landgraf, the architect of some of television’s most boundary-pushing programming, including FX’s critically lauded lineup and content across National Geographic and Onyx Collective, was honored for his leadership in amplifying underrepresented voices.
Also recognized was E. Martin Estrada, former U.S. Attorney for the Central District of California and current partner at Munger, Tolles & Olson LLP, who received the 2025 Francis M. Wheat Community Service Award. Estrada was celebrated for his decades of legal excellence and his tireless commitment to pro bono service and advocacy for vulnerable youth.
The gala attracted a constellation of stars and industry insiders, many of whom served on the evening’s Honorary Committee. Names such as Angela Bassett and Courtney B. Vance, Ryan Murphy, Robert Iger and Willow Bay, and Debra OConnell emphasized the cross-industry support for the Alliance’s work.
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Following the awards program, guests were treated to a live music performance and a celebratory reception—all while raising crucial funds to sustain the Alliance’s life-changing legal services and support for foster youth.
As the evening drew to a close, the message was clear: the children served by the Alliance may come from uncertain circumstances, but tonight, they were embraced by a community determined to secure a better, brighter future for them.
