NEW YORK — Filmmaker Spike Lee and his wife, producer and author Tonya Lewis Lee, joined a star-studded gathering at the Museum of Modern Art on Thursday, November 12, as the institution hosted its 18th annual Film Benefit, presented by CHANEL, in honour of legendary director Steven Spielberg.
The couple arrived together for the high-profile evening, adding another notable appearance to a celebration that brought together leading figures from film, entertainment and culture. Their appearance was captured on the event’s red carpet, where guests gathered to recognise Spielberg’s extraordinary contribution to cinema.
A Night Dedicated To A Filmmaking Legend
According to MoMA’s official event listing, the benefit featured a red carpet, cocktails, a seated dinner and an award programme celebrating Spielberg’s career. The museum said proceeds support its Department of Film, including the acquisition and preservation of important works and the presentation of film exhibitions and public screenings.
Spielberg’s influence spans more than five decades. His acclaimed body of work includes Jaws, E.T. the Extra-Terrestrial, the Indiana Jones films, Schindler’s List, Saving Private Ryan, Lincoln and The Fabelmans. His films have helped shape popular cinema while earning major industry recognition, including multiple Academy Awards.
Spike And Tonya Lee Among The Notable Guests
Spike Lee, the Oscar-winning director behind films such as Do the Right Thing, Malcolm X and BlacKkKlansman, remains one of American cinema’s most distinctive voices. Tonya Lewis Lee is a producer, author and entrepreneur whose work has included film and television projects as well as writing focused on women, families and young audiences.
Their appearance also reflected the benefit’s wider role as a meeting point for filmmakers, performers, artists and cultural leaders. The annual event is not simply a red-carpet occasion; it raises funds for the preservation of film heritage and helps sustain MoMA’s year-round film programming.
Spielberg’s Legacy Takes Centre Stage
MoMA has highlighted its relationship with Spielberg dating back to 1974, when the museum helped introduce his work to audiences through its New Directors/New Films programme. The institution described his ability to combine artistic ambition with popular entertainment as a defining part of his legacy.
Coverage of Thursday’s benefit by The Associated Press reported that Spielberg spoke about retaining the enthusiasm he had as a young filmmaker, reflecting on the curiosity that continues to drive his work.
For Spike and Tonya Lewis Lee, the evening offered an opportunity to celebrate a fellow filmmaker whose work has left a lasting mark on the industry. Their joint appearance added a touch of personal style to a night centred on cinema, creativity and the importance of preserving film history.
Event Photos
View Associated Press red-carpet photographs from the November 12, 2026 benefit, including Spike Lee and Tonya Lewis Lee. For official event details and MoMA’s press information, visit MoMA’s press release.
Photo note: Red-carpet photographs are credited to their respective photographers and agencies. Please check image licensing and permissions before republishing images separately from the linked coverage.