Adam Sandler to receive Chairman’s Award for Jay Kelly performance
In another win for his dramatic work, comic Adam Sandler will receive the Chairman’s Award at the Palm Springs International Film Awards for his performance in Jay Kelly, directed by Noah Baumbach.
Adam Sandler will receive the Chairman’s Award at the Palm Springs International Film Awards for his performance in Jay Kelly, directed by Noah Baumbach.
The ceremony will take place on 3 January at the Palm Springs Convention Center, during the annual film festival running from 2 to 11 January.
The 59-year-old actor, known for roles spanning comedy and drama, will be honoured for what the festival’s organisers have described as a “career-best” performance.
Jay Kelly stars George Clooney in the title role, alongside Laura Dern, with a supporting cast that includes Emily Mortimer, Billy Crudup, Riley Keough, Grace Edwards, Stacy Keach, Patrick Wilson, Eve Hewson, Josh Hamilton, Alba Rohrwacher, Nicôle Lecky, Thaddea Graham, Louis Partridge,Jamie Demetriou and Patsy Ferran.
Festival chairman Nachhattar Singh Chandi said in a statement: “Adam Sandler delivers a deeply moving and career-best performance in Jay Kelly.
“It is a performance which underscores his standing as one of the most versatile and respected actors of his generation. We are proud to honor Adam – a singular talent whose work continues to surprise and inspire – with this year’s Chairman’s Award.”
Jay Kelly tells the story of a celebrated movie actor, played by George, who embarks on a journey of self-discovery through Europe while confronting his past and present.
Adam plays Ron, the actor’s loyal manager, whose companionship drives much of the film’s emotional core as both characters reflect on their relationships and legacies.
Adam will join other honorees including Renate Reinsve, Stellan Skarsgård, Inga Ibsdotter Lilleaas and Elle Fanning, who will receive the International Star Award for their performances in Neon’s Sentimental Value.
Last year’s Chairman’s Award was presented to Timothée Chalamet.
Previous recipients include Amy Adams, George Clooney, Viola Davis, Billie Eilish, Finneas O’Connell, Tom Hanks, Jennifer Hudson, Nicole Kidman, Regina King, Gary Oldman and Reese Witherspoon.
Known for blending humour with heart, Adam rose to fame on Saturday Night Live in the early 1990s before becoming one of Hollywood’s biggest comedy stars with hits such as Happy Gilmore, The Waterboy and Big Daddy.
He later earned critical acclaim for dramatic roles in Punch-Drunk Love, Uncut Gems and Hustle, cementing his reputation as a versatile dramatic performer.
