4th Annual Gold House Gala celebrates Asian Pacific American stars, industry leaders, athletes and influencers
Share and Follow

LOS ANGELES (KABC) — The Gold House Gala brings together Asian Pacific American stars, industry leaders, athletes and influencers to celebrate their excellence. The A-100, a list of ascending AAPI changemakers with the most impact on culture and society, walk the “gold” carpet.

Among the many honored at Saturday’s event was “Wicked” director John Chu.

“This is my family. We’ve known each other for so long. There’s so many people here, so to see it grow to this level is amazing,” Chu said.

The cast of “Moana 2,” led by Auli’i Kravalho, is being recognized for bringing Pacific Islander storytelling mainstream.

“I see more and more Pacific Islander talent every year that I attend, and it makes my heart so happy,” said Kravalho.

Judging who gets to be part of the distinguished A-100 list is no easy task.

“Every year you think you’re covering everybody, but it’s not the case. You find new outstanding people that deserve recognition,” said ABC7’s David Ono, who served as a Gold House judge.

The star-studded gold carpet included Mindy Kaling, director Andrew Ahn, singer HER, Olympian Kristi Yamaguchi, Aryan Simhadri from Percy Jackson fame. Daniel Dae Kim honored martial arts film “Game of Death” and the 25th anniversary of “Crouching Tiger, Hidden Dragon.”

“It’s an iconic movie, it follows in the footsteps of Bruce Lee,” said Kim.

But which A-lister is the Asian with the most persuasion?

“Oh good question… Poorna. Poorna, definitely Poorna,” said Asif Ali, who stars in the “Deli Boys.”

“John M. Chu, right, for us in entertainment, he’s someone behind the camera that is also living his dream,” actress and “Mandalorian” star Ming-Na Wen said

“Probably me,” said actor Utkarsh Ambudkar, who stars in the popular show “Ghosts.”

“Haha…I don’t know Mulan,” said Icelandic singer-songwriter and musician Laufey.

Laufey performed and was honored for breaking barriers with her unique style.

“The goal was always to find kind of like a common ground between lots of different generations,” said Laufey.

“Yah. That’s the Gold house mission. We can all get along and we’re better together,” said Ali.

When asked if they had any advice for anyone wanting to rise to the top, Ambudkar said: “Show up, be prepared, don’t quit, that’s it, and learn everyone’s name.”

Copyright © 2025 KABC Television, LLC. All rights reserved.

Share and Follow
You May Also Like
Trump vows Border Patrol agents will take ‘no nonsense’ as feds march into downtown Chicago

Trump Promises Border Patrol Will Stand Firm Against Nonsense as Federal Agents Head to Chicago’s City Center

Federal agents clad in full tactical gear took to the streets of…
A raptor with no qualms about eating its opponents wins New Zealand’s annual bird election

A Fearless Predator Claims Victory in New Zealand’s Annual Bird of the Year Contest

New Zealand’s yearly bird election showcases cheeky parrots, delightful songbirds, and adorable,…
Austin mayor, police chief hold press conference about Yogurt Shop Murders breakthrough

Austin officials hold press conference on new development in Yogurt Shop Murders case

AUSTIN (KXAN) — Austin Mayor Kirk Watson and Austin Police Chief Lisa Davis…
Mamdani: Trump's donors 'will not dictate' NYC mayoral race

Mamdani Asserts Trump’s Supporters Won’t Influence NYC Mayoral Election

New York City Democratic mayoral candidate Zohran Mamdani said President Trump’s donors…
Dad who threw son from cliff in viral video responds to backlash

Father Responds to Viral Video of Him Throwing Son from Cliff amid Criticism

A father and influencer has responded to intense online criticism after a…
Inside the ugly divorce battle tearing Nashville Country scene apart

The Bitter Divorce Shaking Up Nashville’s Country Music Scene

It’s the ugly divorce battle that’s the talk of the Nashville music…
FBI investigating Michigan church shooting as 'targeted' violence; some worshippers unaccounted for

FBI investigating Michigan church shooting as ‘targeted’ violence; some worshippers unaccounted for

NEWYou can now listen to Fox News articles! The FBI is looking…
ICE in Chicago today: Federal immigration agents, Border Patrol boat seen in downtown Chicago | LIVE

Immigration Authorities Present in Downtown Chicago: Federal Agents and a Border Patrol Boat Spotted | LIVE Coverage

CHICAGO (WLS) — Federal immigration agents have been seen in downtown Chicago…