In a significant recognition of his cinematic contributions, acclaimed director Jon M. Chu is set to receive a prestigious new honour. He will be the inaugural recipient of the Judy Garland Award at the upcoming Lumiere Awards in 2026.
A New Award Celebrating a Timeless Legacy
The Judy Garland Award is a newly established honour by the Advanced Imaging Society. It aims to celebrate individuals whose work in entertainment reflects the highest ideals of artistry, imagination, and cultural impact. The award was specifically created to honour the enduring legacy of the legendary actress, singer, and performer, Judy Garland. It recognises creators who elevate storytelling and continue to inspire global audiences.
Lorna Luft, Judy Garland's daughter, collaborated closely with the Society to shape this meaningful tribute. The presentation ceremony is scheduled for February 9, 2026, and will be held at the iconic Beverly Hills Hotel.
Chu's Cinematic Journey to the Award
Jon M. Chu has cemented his position as one of the most successful filmmakers of his generation through a series of groundbreaking projects. His acclaimed body of work, which includes global hits like 'Crazy Rich Asians', 'In the Heights', and the highly anticipated 'Wicked' and 'Wicked: For Good', showcases his unique vision. His ability to create visually spectacular and culturally resonant stories made him the perfect choice for this inaugural award.
Expressing her admiration, Lorna Luft stated, "I find Jon to be one of the most important, generous, and brilliantly talented directors within this new generation of filmmakers." She added, "I am so honoured to be presenting him this well-deserved award, as he is probably the only filmmaker who could have beautifully bridged the world of the original Oz film with this exuberant new generation of 'Wicked' fans."
The Significance of the Lumiere Awards
The Lumiere Awards are a major event that brings together leading filmmakers, technologists, and innovators from the entertainment industry. The ceremony focuses on celebrating artistic achievement and technological advancement in cinema. By honouring Jon M. Chu with the Judy Garland Award, the event will create a powerful link between contemporary filmmaking excellence and the enduring legacy of a Hollywood icon.
This places Chu among an elite group of past honourees recognised by the Advanced Imaging Society. The distinguished list includes cinematic giants such as:
- James Cameron
- Martin Scorsese
- Ang Lee
- Jennifer Lee
- Jon Favreau
The award underscores Chu's extraordinary contributions to modern cinema and his role in inspiring audiences worldwide.
