It’s the red one piece bathing suit you can recognize, the hair full of volume that as Jaclyn Smith once said, “…could have its own phone line,” and the smile that is carved into the memories of friends, family and all who got a glimpse.
Inspired by her 1976 poster Farrah Fawcett’s replica now sits in a Mattel Barbie box.
The Friends of Farrah Benefit brought together good friends, former actresses and even few who were fond of her appearances on screen but never interacted personally.
Alana Stewart and Jaclyn Smith hosted the event. Stewart was Fawcett’s longtime best friend and became president of the foundation while Smith was a fellow Charlie’s Angel and worked closely with Fawcett.
A few others among all in attendance were Ryan O’neal, Raquel Welch, Benjamin Stone, Nicholas Bishop, Kathy Hilton, Rick Hilton, Frances Fisher, Cheryl Tiegs and Kyle Richards.
President and CEO of Give Back Hollywood, Todd Krim was in full support of the event. Give back Hollywood is a multimedia entertainment company that connects celebrities to causes and charities to support. Krim has worked with charities and foundations of all kinds and expressed just how much it means to make a difference.
All walked the event sharing good memories and emphasizing the tremendous strength of Fawcett after she was diagnosed with colon cancer in 2006. Among the hope and faith Fawcett seemed to hold through the down times, stood her humor; the power to laugh until her very last day. Best friend Stewart shared what stays instilled in her through Fawcett; appreciating everyday and the immense value of all who are close to her heart. She won’t forget the spirit and what Fawcett has contributed to the person she is today.
Actor Benjamin Stone was of few who didn’t know Fawcett personally. “I didn’t, but I wish I did,” he said as he laughed. He knew her through the screen as he grew up and she became an image he would come to know and appreciate. Fawcett documented her last days; the hardest days as well as the easier ones. Not anyone would do that. She fought courageously and wanted to share that with the world. To Stone, that was powerful.
Few who attended had also lost several loved ones to cancer. All agreed and are in support of continuous research for a cure. In response to putting more money and sources into that, “I wouldn’t leave a stone unturned,” said Richards as she was in no objection.
Dim lights and candle light lit up the penthouse bar overlooking West Hollywood. Donations were processing and the Farrah Fawcett Barbie filled hot pink bags and the tight grasps of most who attended. Bill Greening was on hand to sign the limited edition Barbie doll. In response to Fawcetts thoughts if she could see it, with no doubts Jaclyn Smith said, “Oh she would love it.”
Singer JoJo made an appearance to sing her latest hit “Disaster.” An open heart necklace also worn by her from Tiffany & Co would be auctioned online later during the week, proceeds going to the Farrah Fawcett Foundation.
Upon thank you’s toward the end of the night, Stewart thanked Ryan O’neal for his continuous support of the foundation. Stewart especially thanked Co-host Jaclyn Smith as well as all who attended in what Fawcett would appreciate contributing to finding a cure. Smith took the opportunity to share that Stewart was “a true girlfriend, she had such love for Farrah.” “And with all of Farrah’s special gifts that she passed on over the years of her career, I think this one right here, her passion to find a cure will be the most important to her,” Smith shared. Fawcett had started the foundation before she passed; Stewart carries on with the vision to be what Farrah wanted it to someday be.
A large poster of Fawcett’s iconic photo stood on an easel as many signed their names and snapped photos.
Farrah is an icon; it was more than evident just how much she was loved and lives on through those that had the opportunity to know her.
Sponsors of the event included Fashion Forms who provided gift bags filled with bra, lingerie and bra accessories, Home Family Wines, Modern Floral and Perrier. Signature cocktails, The Farrah and Charlie’s Cocktail, by Voli Vodka were served.
