Amal Clooney stands by George's major career milestone at star-studded gala

George Clooney enjoyed a dazzling night at the 51st annual Chaplin Award Gala in New York, where real life seemed to mirror his latest film role. 

The 64-year-old Hollywood star was honoured at Film at Lincoln Center’s black-tie ceremony, arriving arm-in-arm with wife Amal in a sharp Armani tux and instantly stealing the spotlight.

He joked to the packed crowd of more than 2,000 guests that turning 65 next week felt “astonishing”.

Ocean's Eleven star added with a grin that online ads were already pushing “adult diapers” his way. 

But beneath the humour, George admitted the evening left him humbled, especially after starring in Jay Kelly, where an ageing actor is similarly celebrated on screen.

Reflecting on his journey, Batman and Robin actor recalled his early days in Kentucky cutting tobacco for a few dollars an hour, and the long struggle through failed TV pilots before ER finally made him a household name. 

A touching moment came as he described once giving a stranger $20 outside Paramount Studios, only to later discover that same man helped him land a life-changing audition years later.

The Wolfs actor also used the stage to speak seriously about violence in the US, calling for calm while acknowledging political divisions,.

He also paid tribute to his humanitarian work supporting journalists and underserved communities through film training initiatives.

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