Pamela Anderson, the well-known actress and model, delivered a heartfelt acknowledgment of her past health struggles during the amfAR Gala Venezia 2026. The event, which took place at the Hilton Molino Stucky in Venice on September 6, saw Anderson presented with the non-profit’s Award of Courage for her resilience and advocacy following her battle with hepatitis C.
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In an emotional acceptance speech, Anderson revisited the moment when she received her diagnosis in 2002. She recalled her doctor telling her that she might only have a decade left to live, describing the prognosis as a “death sentence.” The viral infection, which she attributed to sharing tattoo needles with her then-husband, Tommy Lee, affected her deeply, altering how she made decisions for many years.
Reflective of her journey, Anderson stated, “It was not fear of death, but fear of what might happen to my young children. It turned my life inside out.” She shares two adult sons, Brandon Thomas and Dylan Jagger, with Lee. The emotional weight of the diagnosis evidently impacted her greatly, forcing her to reassess her priorities and focus on her family.
The financial burden of her treatment was immense. Anderson recounted that it “took everything I had in my bank” to pay for the necessary medical care. Fortunately, by 2015, she announced that she had overcome the infection, aided by advancements in hepatitis C treatment that were made available around 2011.
In her speech, Anderson addressed the way in which she has redefined her identity in light of her past. “I’m not a victim, I’m a victor. I am strong and capable, more now than I could ever dream of,” she declared. Rejecting the notion of being a “damsel in distress,” Anderson emphasised her empowerment and desire to inspire others with similar struggles.
Taika Waititi, her co-star in the forthcoming film *Place to Be*, presented her with the Award of Courage. The film, directed by Kornél Mundruczó, will also feature performances by Ellen Burstyn, Édgar Ramírez, and Lena Waithe, and is set to premiere at the Venice Film Festival on September 9.
The amfAR Gala has long been dedicated to the fight against HIV/AIDS, and their work has also extended to raising awareness about hepatitis C, given that many individuals living with HIV also face this viral infection. The event this year honoured not only Anderson but also performance artist Marina Abramović, who received the Award of Inspiration from actor Orlando Bloom.
Amidst the gala’s celebrations, attendees enjoyed live performances from artists including Mimi Webb and Bebe Rexha, and there was also a charity auction. The event underscored the ongoing efforts to combat the HIV/AIDS epidemic and highlighted the importance of support systems and research in the community.
In addition to the recognition at the amfAR Gala, Anderson has several upcoming projects lined up, including *Place to Be*, *Alma*, *Love Is Not the Answer*, and *Somedays*. Her recent work includes a role in *Rosebush Pruning*, which was released in July 2023.
The Venice Film Festival, running from September 2 to 12, has provided a platform for artists like Anderson to share their stories while contributing to critical conversations surrounding health, resilience, and advocacy. The awards and recognitions at the gala not only celebrate individual achievements but also serve to uplift those who continue to face challenges in their lives.