Annette Bening has captured another accolade to add to her storied career: Harvard University's Hasty Pudding Theatricals named her "Woman of the Year."
The "Woman of the Year" award, given annually to women who've made significant marks in the entertainment industry, puts Bening in the company of previous honorees such as Meryl Streep and Jennifer Coolidge. Admired for roles in "The Grifters" and "American Beauty," Bening also scored a recent Oscar nod for "Nyad," as reported by CBS News Boston. She's set to be honored on February 6, in a ceremony initially slated for January 26 but delayed due to conflicts, according to The Boston Globe.
Joking about the challenge of roasting such an acclaimed actress, Hasty Pudding producer Hannah Frazer told CBS News Boston, "While Annette's long list of accolades make it tough to come up with material for our historic roast, we have plenty of tricks up our sleeve." The tribute will include a roast followed by a performance of the Pudding's 175th production, "Heist Heist Baby," which Bening will attend.
Hasty Pudding president Josh Hillers expressed his excitement in honoring Bening during the organization's landmark 175th year: "We're absolutely thrilled to honor Annette Bening in this milestone 175th anniversary year for the Hasty Pudding," Hillers said in a statement obtained by The Boston Globe. "Hot off her Oscars nomination for Best Actress, we're excited to present her with the most prestigious award in the entertainment industry." Having bagged various awards during her career, including a Tony and an impressive five-time Academy Award nomination, Bening's accolades continue to grow.
While Hasty Pudding Theatricals' Woman of the Year celebration traditionally features a parade through Harvard Square, no confirmation has come as to whether this spectacle will manifest for Bening. Nevertheless, the respected actress remains in the spotlight as Harvard's theatrical tradition perseveres, recognizing talent that has shaped the world of entertainment.
