Oprah Winfrey charms ‘Lincoln’ cast and crew at world premiere
Steven Spielberg’s “Lincoln” has the pedigree, star power and advertising campaign of a masterpiece -- so what could possibly distract from the 16th president’s big-screen treatment?
Oprah Winfrey, of course.
The mogul quietly attended the film’s world premiere in Hollywood on Thursday, where Spielberg presented the film as the closing night gala for AFI Fest.
PHOTOS: ‘Lincoln’ premiere at AFI Fest
Showing off an hourglass figure in a velvet sleeveless gown, one that will surely captivate in her forthcoming acting effort “The Butler” from Lee Daniels, Winfrey hit Grauman’s Chinese Theatre with a female pal to catch Daniel Day-Lewis’ turn as Abe.
And was she ever the Oprah we love -- arms spread open giving giant hugs to the likes of Tommy Lee Jones and producer Kathleen Kennedy, chatting near her seat while rows and rows of moviegoers buzzed about her presence.
A particularly adorable moment came when 13-year-old Gulliver McGrath, who plays the youngest First Son Tad Lincoln, marched up to Winfrey and extended his arm for a greeting. Naturally, Oprah refused his hand and brought him in for a squeeze.
PHOTOS: ‘Lincoln’ premiere at AFI Fest
Joseph Gordon-Levitt attended with his parents, making sure mom and dad were supplied with popcorn and drinks while waving to costars like James Spader, Jared Harris, John Hawkes and a stunning Gloria Reuben.
Spielberg, who received a standing ovation when taking the podium to introduce the film, made brief but concise remarks about wanting to “bring Lincoln down off of his marble pedestal” and show the man behind the abolition of slavery.
Audi, primary sponsor of AFI Fest, welcomed guests to the Roosevelt Hotel for a rainy but cheerful after-party, where a long wall leading up to the VIP sky lounge was papered with the words of the 13th Amendment.
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