Charlize Theron’s star-studded gathering: part charity event, part F9 screening

'Was such a blast to see friends in real life again'

Charlize Theron, Charlize Theron hair, Charlize Theron red hair transformation
(Image credit: Getty Images)

Charlize Theron didn't let precious time go to waste. Now that in-person gatherings have been given the green light (within limits), she decided to use this opportunity to raise awareness for her two labors of love—her foundation, The Charlize Theron Africa Outreach Project (CTAOP), and her latest flick, Fast & Furious's new F9. Albeit an unlikely mix, the actress coined the dual-purpose block party event as "a night I won't soon forget."

Hollywood A-listers, including Kate Beckinsale, Seth Rogen, Chelsea Handler, and Connie Britton gathered at Universal Studios in fashion-forward attire—a chic skirt for Theron, a puff-sleeved mini dress for Beckinsale, and a plaid cardigan and casual pants for Rogen—to celebrate the host's passion projects. Judging from the social media snaps, it seems there was a sense of relief to get back to a somewhat normal routine in the name of a good cause (and a new movie).

"Was such a blast to see friends in real life again, and I’m beyond grateful for the support and love shown for my foundation," the actress wrote on Instagram.

Charlize Theron's guests were equally as excited

January Jones and Kate Beckinsale took time to share their praise for Charlize's humanitarian efforts and show their Instagram followers just how thrilled they were to see peers in person again.

"Umm. I’m at a physical EVENT," Jaunary wrote. "Could only be for the great @charlizeafrica and her baby @ctaop and also @thefastsaga with @chelseahandler @conniebritton."

Although it was gratifying to be able to hold an event once more, the stars' excitement to be out and about didn't outshine the foundation's purpose, which is to help keep African youths safe from HIV and AIDS. An interactive tunnel provided visitors with insight into the organization and a silent auction has officially opened to the public, which will send all proceeds to straight into funding CTAOP's work in Southern Africa, according to its Facebook page. 

Charlize has said her work has even taken on a personal note. 

"This is an issue that’s a global issue, it’s a global health crisis so of course I think of my kids because I see young girls just like my girls when I do this work," she revealed to Access Hollywood

As for FF9, which has garnered the biggest box office opening since 2019, it promises a healthy dose of action. Plus, it puts Helen Mirren behind the wheel of $282,000 supercar. Need we say more?

Danielle Valente

Danielle is a writer for woman&home and My Imperfect Life, where she particularly enjoys covering lifestyle and entertainment news. She was previously the editor of Time Out New York Kids and a news editor at Elite Daily. When she's not working, you can find her reading a good book and enjoying a cup of coffee. Follow her @dvwrites.