An Iconic Night for a Worthy Cause: UCLA Jonsson Cancer Center Foundation Hosts 28th Annual Taste for a Cure
On Friday, May 2, 2025, the grand ballroom of the iconic Beverly Wilshire was aglow with star power, philanthropy, and culinary excellence as the UCLA Jonsson Cancer Center Foundation held its 28th annual Taste for a Cure gala. A hallmark on the Los Angeles social calendar, the event brought together luminaries from the entertainment, culinary, and philanthropic worlds to raise critical funds for leading-edge cancer research at the UCLA Health Jonsson Comprehensive Cancer Center.
The evening’s honoree, Ravi Ahuja, CEO of Sony Pictures Entertainment, received the prestigious 2025 Gil Nickel Humanitarian Award for his industry leadership and impactful philanthropic work. Ahuja joins an esteemed roster of past honorees including Dana Walden, Stephen A. Smith, and Jennifer Salke, and was recognized for his dedication to community service and healthcare advancement.
Emmy® Award-winning host and late-night television titan Jimmy Kimmel lent his signature wit and charm as host for the evening. Known for his work on Jimmy Kimmel Live! and as a producer and author, Kimmel led the night with humor and heartfelt support for the cause.
The highlight of the evening was a special live performance by Luke Bryan, one of country music’s biggest stars. With over 114 million certified units and a long list of accolades—including five Entertainer of the Year awards—Bryan electrified the room with an intimate set celebrating both his artistry and his own humanitarian efforts.
Guests indulged in gourmet tastings from some of Los Angeles's most acclaimed restaurants, including All Roads, Hinoki and the Bird, Cavcas, and The BLVD. at The Beverly Wilshire, paired with award-winning wines from vintners like the Far Niente Family of Wines. The immersive culinary experience reflected the event's continued reputation as one of Southern California’s top ten epicurean evenings.
Behind the success of the event stood a powerhouse team of entertainment industry leaders serving as co-chairs, including Joe Cohen (CAA), Dana Walden (Disney Entertainment), Sandra Stern (LIONSGATE TV), Keri Shahidi (7th Sun Productions), and others who lent their time and influence to amplify support for the cause. The Hollywood Reporter served as the evening’s media partner.
Since its inception, Taste for a Cure has raised millions for high-priority cancer research initiatives, continuing to honor the legacy of Gil Nickel, for whom the Humanitarian Award is named. Nickel, founder of Far Niente and Dolce wineries, lost his life to melanoma in 2003, and the award remains a testament to those who use their platforms to drive meaningful change.
As laughter, music, and generosity filled the Beverly Wilshire, one message rang clear: the fight against cancer continues, and together, through unity and giving, a cure is within reach.
For more information on Taste for a Cure, including sponsorship opportunities and future event updates, visit TasteForACure.com. Join the conversation on social media using #tasteforacure.
Photography: Tommaso Boddi/Getty for UCLA Jonsson Cancer Center Foundation’s Taste for a Cure