NEW YORK — Comedian and Saturday Night Live cast member Marcello Hernández brought his signature confidence and polished style to the red carpet at the Museum of Modern Art’s 18th annual Film Benefit, presented by CHANEL, on Thursday, November 12, 2026. The evening honoured acclaimed filmmaker Steven Spielberg.
Hernández was among the entertainment figures attending the high-profile New York gathering, where actors, directors and other cultural personalities came together to celebrate Spielberg’s contribution to cinema. A red-carpet photo gallery published by Page Six included Hernández among the arrivals.
The benefit took place at MoMA on November 12, with cocktails beginning at 7 p.m., followed by dinner and the programme. The museum described the event as its 18th annual Film Benefit, presented with CHANEL and dedicated this year to honouring Spielberg. The evening brought together prominent names from film and entertainment for a celebration of the director’s remarkable career.
According to MoMA’s official announcement, the annual benefit raises funds for the museum’s Department of Film, supporting the acquisition and preservation of important works and film exhibitions. Proceeds from the 2026 event benefit the Debra and Leon Black Family Film Center.
Spielberg’s selection as honouree recognised a career spanning more than five decades. The filmmaker has directed more than 35 feature films, moving across blockbuster adventure, science fiction and historical drama. His celebrated works include Jaws, E.T. the Extra-Terrestrial, the Indiana Jones films, Jurassic Park, Schindler’s List and Saving Private Ryan.
The director also reflected on his enduring enthusiasm for filmmaking during the event. In comments reported by the Associated Press, Spielberg said the excitement he felt as a 12-year-old making 8mm home movies had never left him. He also described MoMA’s recognition as especially meaningful because of the institution’s longstanding role in treating film as an art form.
Hernández has become a familiar face to television audiences through Saturday Night Live, where his characters and energetic performances have helped establish him as one of the show’s notable contemporary cast members. His growing profile has also extended into film, including a role in the 2025 comedy Happy Gilmore 2.
The MoMA benefit offered another meeting point for comedy, fashion and the film industry, with Hernández joining a guest list that included established actors and filmmakers. While Spielberg remained the focus of the evening, the event’s red carpet also provided a showcase for the personalities and creative voices shaping contemporary entertainment.
Photo note: The image accompanying this article is a licensed archival photograph of Hernández at a 2024 comedy performance. It is not represented as a photograph from the MoMA Film Benefit.