The 79th Cannes Film Festival became a parade of unforgettable moments – from star-studded appearances to spontaneous emotions that instantly went viral on the red carpet. This year, Cannes once again solidified its status as the premier stage for pop culture and global glamour. We’ve gathered 11 of the most memorable highlights that defined the festival’s atmosphere.
Peter Jackson Honored with an Honorary Palme d’Or
Peter Jackson receiving the honorary Palme d’Or from Elijah Wood
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On the opening day of the festival, director Peter Jackson, the visionary behind “The Lord of the Rings,” was presented with an honorary Palme d’Or by Elijah Wood, forever remembered by audiences as Frodo from the iconic trilogy. This marked a significant milestone in the New Zealand filmmaker’s career.
Bella Hadid’s Striking Ensembles
Bella Hadid
Bella Hadid
Bella Hadid was undoubtedly one of the most captivating figures at the Cannes Film Festival. Recognizing the red carpet’s power as a media showcase, she made numerous appearances at festival events and private gatherings, including at the Hôtel du Cap-Eden-Roc. Her most talked-about look of 2026 was a custom Schiaparelli gown, inspired by Jane Birkin’s 1969 ensemble.
The Grand Return of Penélope Cruz and Monica Bellucci
Penélope Cruz
Monica Bellucci
After a seven-year hiatus, Penélope Cruz and Monica Bellucci returned to the Cannes Film Festival, each presenting a new film in the competition program. “Black Robe” is a project featuring Cruz, directed by Javier Calvo and Javier Ambros, while Bellucci showcased “Stories of Night” by director Léa Mysius, an adaptation of Laurent Mauvignier’s novel.
A Pregnancy Announcement Steals the Spotlight
Barbara Palvin and Dylan Sprouse are expecting their first child
Barbara Palvin and Dylan Sprouse, on their way to the Palais des Festivals, captured the attention of all photographers. The model appeared in a delicate blue Miu Miu dress, revealing her pregnancy for the first time. The couple is anticipating their first child.
A T-Shirt Tribute to Annie Ernaux
Annie Ernaux
French writer Annie Ernaux received a football jersey with her name and the number 10 during a photo call – a symbolic gesture that immediately garnered public attention.
Theodora and Oklou Perform a Classic Beatles Track
Theodora and Oklou
At the opening ceremony, French singers Theodora and Oklou presented a melancholic rendition of The Beatles’ song “Get Back” as a tribute to Peter Jackson’s documentary project.
A Spontaneous Dance by Laetitia Casta and Louis Garrel
Laetitia Casta and Louis Garrel
During the premiere of the film “Karman,” Laetitia Casta and Louis Garrel unexpectedly began dancing on the red carpet, a moment that became one of the most discussed scenes of the evening.
A Powerful Friendship Displayed
Adèle Exarchopoulos
Adèle Exarchopoulos, returning to Cannes as the lead actress in Jeanne Herry’s new film “Garance,” appeared at Nice Airport wearing a t-shirt referencing Léa Seydoux, with whom she starred in “Blue Is the Warmest Color” (2013). Days later, Seydoux reciprocated the gesture with a t-shirt featuring Exarchopoulos’s face. A display of friendship that instantly became a viral sensation.
25 Years of “Fast & Furious”
![25th anniversary of "Fast & Furious"10](/wp-content/uploads/2026/05/6605cec92cf42f2f03211737e60b2a74.jpg "25th anniversary of "Fast & Furious"")
The 25th Anniversary of “Fast & Furious”
“Fast & Furious” celebrated its 25th anniversary as part of Cannes Classics. Vin Diesel, Jordana Brewster, producer Neal H. Moritz, and Meadow Walker, daughter of the late Paul Walker, were present at the special screening.
A Family Affair on the Red Carpet
John Travolta with his daughter Ella Bleu
Recently, stars have increasingly been appearing on red carpets with family members. This includes Bella Hadid, who graced the Croisette with her brother, and John Travolta, accompanied by his daughter Ella Bleu Travolta.
A Kiss Between Virginie Efira and Niels Schneider
A kiss between Virginie Efira and Niels Schneider
One of the most talked-about moments of the festival was the kiss between Virginie Efira and Niels Schneider during the premiere of the film “The Unknown.” This spontaneous gesture of affection quickly went viral across social media.
Based on materials from vogue.fr.