entertainment
Ellen Burstyn Emotionally Honored with Golden Lion at Venice Film Festival
Ellen Burstyn received the Golden Lion for Lifetime Achievement at the Venice Film Festival, moved to tears. Maggie Gyllenhaal delivered a heartfelt message on her behalf after Burstyn's recent fall.
9/24/2026, 9:45:51 PM
Ellen Burstyn, the celebrated 93-year-old actress with numerous awards including Oscars, Tonys, and Emmys, received the prestigious Golden Lion for Lifetime Achievement at the Venice Film Festival, an honor that moved her deeply. During the ceremony, actress Maggie Gyllenhaal, who delivered a heartfelt message on Burstyn’s behalf, revealed that the veteran star had experienced a recent fall but assured everyone that she was fine.
As she took to the stage to accept the trophy, Burstyn was visibly emotional. "Winning an Oscar, Tony or Emmy is one thing, but this is something very special," she expressed during her heartfelt speech. This recognition from the Venice Film Festival adds a significant milestone to her illustrious career.
Burstyn's career spans decades, featuring remarkable performances in iconic films and stage productions. The Golden Lion is a tribute that honors not just her achievements but also her profound impact on the film and theater industries.
Maggie Gyllenhaal, who highlighted Burstyn's resilience and artistry, further emphasized the significance of the award. "Ellen has paved the way for many and continues to inspire generations of artists," she remarked.
Attendees noted the sense of camaraderie and admiration shared among the audience as Burstyn received the honor. The event highlighted not only her legacy but also the importance of artistic contributions to cinema and culture. With this award in hand, Burstyn adds yet another accolade to her already remarkable list of achievements, underscoring her status as a titan of the performing arts.