George Clooney made his triumphant return to the spotlight just in time for his latest film premiere after being forced to cancel several press commitments due to illness. The 64-year-old Hollywood icon and his wife, Amal Clooney, dazzled attendees at the Venice Film Festival on Thursday evening for the unveiling of the Netflix-backed Noah Baumbach production Jay Kelly.
The power couple commanded attention as they made their way down the red carpet in unison. The Academy Award-winning performer had to skip press briefings, photo opportunities, and a cast gathering prior to the screening after being sidelined by a sinus infection for 24 hours.
George appeared effortlessly elegant in a traditional black tuxedo, while the internationally renowned human rights lawyer outshone her spouse in a stunning vintage fuchsia ruched taffeta creation from Jean-Louis Scherrer's autumn 1995 line, complemented by strappy metallic Aquazzura stilettos and a gold Jimmy Choo evening bag. The figure-hugging mini featured a series of buttons along the front and an elaborate train.
George and Amal exchanged vows in Venice back in 2014 and are parents to 8-year-old twins, Alexander and Ella, reports the Mirror US.
Upon stepping out of their vehicle, he inquired, "Are you okay?" before declaring, "Okay, let's go."
The Clooneys were on the red carpet for about half an hour as George took time to sign autographs and capture moments with his spouse and fellow cast members Adam Sandler, Laura Dern, Riley Keough, and Emily Mortimer. The star appeared to be in high spirits despite battling illness, and on several occasions, he was seen grasping his throat while stating, "I can't speak."
Earlier during the photocall that day, the host revealed, "I'm afraid George Clooney is not going to be here because he has a bad, serious sinus infection. We hope that he will be on the red carpet tonight."
Adam joked, "Movie stars get sick too," while Laura chimed in, "George is so devastated that he can't be here."
The movie, helmed by Greta Gerwig's spouse and creative collaborator Noah, showcases George in the lead role as a Hollywood film star who "always plays himself."
The official plot summary states, "Famous movie actor Jay Kelly and his devoted manager Ron embark on a whirlwind and unexpectedly profound journey through Europe. Along the way, both men are forced to confront the choices they've made, the relationships with their loved ones, and the legacies they'll leave behind."
The picture, which is vying for the festival's highest honours, earned a 10-minute standing ovation following its debut screening.
