James Corden and Julia Carey Attend National Theatre Up Next Gala
James Corden, the 47-year-old star of Gavin & Stacey, enjoyed a sophisticated evening out with his glamorous wife, Julia Carey, 49, at the National Theatre Up Next Gala in London on Thursday night. The couple, who married in 2012, looked impeccably stylish as they graced the red carpet. James sported a dapper navy tuxedo, while Julia stole the spotlight in an elegant purple silk dress, drawing admiration from onlookers.
The Cordens, who share three children—Max, 13, Carey, 11, and Charlotte, eight—recently moved back to the UK after an eight-year stint in the United States, where James hosted The Late Late Show. Their return to British soil has been marked by high-profile appearances, with this gala being a notable highlight in their social calendar.
Cate Blanchett's Distinguished Presence and Recent Honour
Elsewhere at the event, acclaimed actress Cate Blanchett, 56, made a striking impression in a quirky suit as she posed for cameras. Blanchett's attendance was particularly significant given her recent recognition: last year, she was honoured with the Freedom of the City of London for her outstanding contributions to drama and her extensive humanitarian campaigning.
As a global goodwill ambassador for the UNHCR, the United Nations refugee agency, Blanchett has been a vocal advocate for refugees. Speaking after the ceremony at Guildhall, where she was joined by guests with refugee backgrounds, she expressed deep gratitude. "I treasure this gift from a city and country with a history of offering welcome and opportunity," she said. "London is a melting pot, where people from around the world find a home."
Blanchett added, "It has long provided sanctuary to those fleeing persecution, from the Huguenots centuries ago to people escaping conflicts in Syria, Afghanistan, Ukraine, and beyond. For many refugees, London represents a new beginning—safety, hope, and belonging after hardship and displacement. I accept the freedom in their honour."
Purpose of the Up Next Gala and Notable Attendees
The Up Next Gala is the National Theatre's biennial fundraising initiative, dedicated to addressing inequalities within the arts. This year's event attracted a host of prominent figures from the entertainment industry, underscoring its importance in supporting creative diversity and inclusion.
Other distinguished attendees included:
- Russell Tovey, who was photographed with James Corden inside the gala.
- Stephen Mangan, 57, who looked smart and composed at the event.
- Bella Maclean, 28, who cut a stylish figure in a strapless black dress.
- Aidan Turner, the Irish actor who appeared in great spirits.
- Olly Alexander, the singer who showcased a trendy look in a white shirt and baggy trousers.
Cate Blanchett's Illustrious Career and Accolades
Cate Blanchett's career is marked by numerous achievements, including two Academy Awards: Best Supporting Actress for The Aviator in 2005 and Best Actress for Blue Jasmine in 2014. She rose to fame with her portrayal of Queen Elizabeth I in Elizabeth (1998) and gained further recognition as Galadriel in The Lord of the Rings trilogy.
Her filmography includes notable roles in Carol, Notes on a Scandal, and Tar. Beyond cinema, Blanchett has been actively involved in theatre, serving as co-director of the Sydney Theatre Company from 2008 to 2013 alongside her husband, Andrew Upton. Her accolades extend to BAFTA awards, and she is a member of the Earthshot Prize council, an environmental initiative founded by the Prince of Wales.
In addition to her Freedom of the City honour, Blanchett has been awarded a Companion of the Order of Australia and received the World Economic Forum's Crystal Award in 2018 for her leadership in raising awareness of the refugee crisis. Nominated for the Freedom honour by former Lord Mayor Sir William Russell and Emily Benn, chairwoman of the Guildhall School of Music and Drama board, her impact on both the arts and humanitarian efforts continues to be celebrated globally.
