Hollywood Beat

Tyra, Jennifer & Ricki – Big Brothers / Big Sisters

Several dancing darlings, including Jennifer Grey (Dirty Dancing), Ricki Lake (currently appearing on Dancing with the Stars) and arguably the best pro dancer on the show, Derek Hough were on hand to honor the legendary award-wining director and choreographer, Kenny Ortega, at the Big Brothers Big Sisters of L.A. Rising Stars Gala. Ortega has worked with the biggest stars of all time, including Cher, Barbra Streisand and Madonna. Currently, he can be seen all over the tubes,  posing with the late super-star Michael Jackson.

For over two decades, Ortega was Jackson’s director and creative partner.  He directed both the Dangerous and History world tours, and numerous videos and shows for Michael.  He also collaborated on Jackson’s This I It, the two-hour feature film, which has grossed over $250 million

Tyra Banks presented the Sherry Lansing Award to Nancy Josephson, who is a partner in WME Entertainment.  Josephson was the first woman to be named president at a major Hollywood talent agency,, and the first female president of the Hollywood Radio & TV Society.

The gala evening was hosted by Ricki Lake, a front-runner on Dancing With the Stars, who received some good counseling from former winner of the coveted trophy, Jennifer Grey.  “Just be yourself, and enjoy the moment” good advice for us all!

Talk Show Host Sarah Purcell presented the Legacy Award to Sandy Bilson, President of the BBBS Guild.  This is a volunteer group, comprised of prominent women from the community, who have raised over $8 million to support the mentoring programs of BBBSLA, who have been in existence for over 56 years. Their goal is to assist boys and girls in achieving their highest potential, by one-to-one relationships that change their lives for the better.  They have proven successful in creating and nurturing relationships between adults and children.  Mentoring works – one young person at a time. For more info, please visit www.bbbsla.org

Jennifer Grey, Derek Hough & Ricki Lake at Big Brothers/Big Sisters Gala

Tyra Banks presented Award to Nancy Josephson & her “Little Sister”

Jennifer Grey with famed choreographer, Kenny Ortega