Most Hollywood veterans started out in the entertainment business when they were young. Watch older films and their faces may crop up for a few seconds as they utter their short lines. From those meager beginnings, these talented entertainers cobbled those performances into healthy careers. For all the gravitas these industry veterans may wield, however, it’s still Young Hollywood that sparks the imagination and entices audiences with its untold potential. The 12th Annual Young Hollywood Awards recognizes the current crop of talented young entertainers that could dominate the future of Hollywood.
The star-studded evening – sponsored by JC Penney, mark. and Lipton Sparkling Diet Green Tea – was hosted by Mario Lopez, wearing a simple black suit, which was accessorized by his trademark dimples. Referred to as the “Oscars of Young Hollywood” by some, the prestigious awards ceremony was held at the Wilshire Ebell Theatre where honorees and presenters arrived in performance luxury vehicles provided by Acura. On site, Lipton provided a Sparkling Tea Salon where guests could mingle and enjoy exclusive beverages. Specialty cocktails were offered by Svedka and finger foods were provided by Nobu and Sensible Portions.
The premiere event hosted some of Hollywood’s best and brightest – sunglasses were required just to read the guest list. Attendees included the Jonas brothers, Ben Stiller, Rumer Willis, Jennie Garth and Adam Shankman to name a few. Upping the ante to the glamorous affair was Kevin Rudolf who took the stage to perform “I Made It” and “Let It Rock”.
Surprisingly absent was Miley Cyrus. The teen sensation would have been right at home at an evening attended by her peers, which also included her current boyfriend, Liam Hemsworth, who costarred with Cyrus in the recent film The Last Song. Hemsworth was honored with the YH Breakthrough Award and thanked both Miley and her father for their constant support. Unfortunately, the only Cyrus in attendance was Trace from Metro Station.
Perhaps it was best that Miley passed on the evening since her ex-boyfriend Nick Jonas was at the event to receive the YH Artist of the Year Award. Nick’s brothers also attended to show their support and discuss their summer plans. Joe was looking forward to spending some time in Cabo where Kevin had just spent his honeymoon a few weeks ago with his wife, Danielle, who accompanied him to the Young Hollywood Awards. Before Nick Jonas left for the evening, he requested a pair of sneakers from Onitsuka Tiger who were sponsoring the event. His female fans may be interested and disappointed in knowing that the size was an 8 and a half – hopefully Nick will be the exception that breaks the stereotype!
Ben Stiller’s appearance at the 12th Annual Young Hollywood Awards was one of the highlights of the evening. Before he walked out on stage he was dancing in the back to Kevin Rudolf’s live performance of “Let It Rock”. Stiller was invited to present the award of YH Comedian of the Year to Whitney Cummings and he joked that “young Hollywood” is ten years old. Anything after that is middle-aged.
The Twilight crew was also out in full force at the ceremony. Peter Facinelli, who arrived late to the event because he was coaching his daughter’s soccer practice, presented the YH Superstar in the Making Award to Twilight costar Nikki Reed. During the evening, Reed was overheard talking about having rear-ended her mother on Mother’s Day! Representing the wolf pack was Booboo Stewart who presented the Newcomer of the Year Award to Justin Beiber who was unable to attend at the last minute. Stewart graciously accepted the award on Beiber’s behalf.
Jessica Stroup, who received the YH Sparkling Performance Award, walked the red carpet alone even though her boyfriend Dustin Milligan was in attendance. Milligan told guests that it was his girlfriend’s night and that he couldn’t be happier for her. Afterwards, the couple planned to dine at Stroup’s favorite Italian restaurant to take the edge of the overwhelming day.
With new trends and tastes constantly overcoming the entertainment industry, it’s impossible to say which young stars will still be in the limelight in the future. It takes a lot of talent, mental and physical fortitude and fluid versatility to last in this town. If the honorees at the 12th Annual Young Hollywood Awards are any indication, however, there’s a strong probability that fans will be seeing these faces for some time to come.
Young Hollywood Award Recipients & Presenters
Liam Hemsworth, YH Breakthrough Award, presented by Adam Shankman
Justin Bieber, YH Newcomer of the Year, presented & accepted by Booboo Stewart
The Vampire Diaries, YH Cast to Watch, presented by the cast of If I Can Dream
Jessica Stroup, YH Sparkling Performance, presented by Jennie Garth
Whitney Cummings, YH Comedian of the Year, presented by Ben Stiller
Ashley Greene, YH Style Icon, presented by Cecilia Cassini & Jessica Stroup
Chad Ochocinco, YH Athlete of the Year, presented by Cheryl Burke
Nina Dobrev, YH Making Their mark., presented by Ashley Greene
Nikki Reed, YH Superstar in the Making, presenter Peter Facinelli
Nick Jonas, YH Artist of the Year, presented by Michael Rapino