‘Ted Lasso’ Star Hannah Waddingham Stuns in Black Akris at Academy Museum Gala

Avatar photoRobert Milaković
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Hannah Waddingham is no stranger to the Academy Museum of Motion Pictures. In July, she graced the venue for the premiere of ‘Ted Lasso’ season 4, dazzling in a Monique Lhuillier metallic gold sculpted minidress adorned with floral embroidery. Just three months later, she returned for a completely different occasion.

The 6th annual Academy Museum Gala took place on Saturday, Oct. 17, honoring Charlize Theron with the Icon Award, Colman Domingo with the Vantage Award, and John Carpenter with the Luminary Award. The night featured a performance by Taylor Swift and raised over $14 million for the museum, with Rolex as a sponsor and Tom Ford, Robert Rodriguez, Steven Spielberg, and Kate Capshaw serving as co-chairs.

Waddingham’s entrance at the Academy Museum Gala was a highlight of the red carpet. She opted for a black Akris gown that combined a sculpted silhouette with a textured, almost feathered finish. This choice marked a tonal shift from the gold of her July premiere, showcasing her ability to make each appearance unique.

The gown features a scooped neckline with slim straps and a fitted bodice that accentuates her figure. The skirt is embellished with petal-like, feathery details, and a high slit reveals one leg as she walks. The hem flares into a ruffled, trailing finish that elegantly pools on the floor.

The texture of the dress is what truly elevates the look. Rather than a simple black column, the gown catches the light with hundreds of tiny, dimensional pieces. Her short blonde bob added a modern touch, allowing the dress to take center stage.

This black dress is just the latest in a series of stunning looks this year. At the 2026 BAFTAs, she presented the Best Costume Design award in a bespoke red ombré sequin gown by Pamela Rolland, featuring a halter neck and a back slit. In June, she wowed on a London red carpet in a black satin mermaid dress with a plunging halter neck and a high slit.

More recently, she attended the 2026 Albies in London, wearing a metallic olive one-shoulder gown that she co-designed with ‘Ride or Die’ costume designer Sharon Gilham. This dress featured draping across the waist and a long panel cascading from the shoulder, showcasing her interest in design as well as fashion.

Waddingham also participated in a lively group photo alongside Eva Longoria, Rhea Seehorn, and Issa Rae. Their charming poses captured the essence of the evening, highlighting the gala’s blend of film, television, and fashion.

Black was a popular choice throughout the night. Charlize Theron donned sheer black lace, Jessica Lange opted for a black lace gown, and Jessica Biel chose a black velvet dress featuring a thigh-high slit and feather detailing. Odessa A’zion also made a statement in an orange and black feathered outfit. In this esteemed company, Waddingham’s textured Akris gown stood out.

Waddingham’s red carpet success coincides with a busy year on screen. Season 4 of ‘Ted Lasso’ premiered in August 2026, with her reprising her role as Rebecca Welton, which earned her a Primetime Emmy for Outstanding Supporting Actress in a Comedy Series in 2021. She also stars in the new action-comedy series ‘Ride or Die’, marking her latest leading role.

Her impressive résumé spans from the West End, where she has received three Olivier Award nominations, to her role as Septa Unella in ‘Game of Thrones’. She has also appeared in ‘The Fall Guy’ and lends her voice to a goddess in the animated series ‘Krapopolis’. This versatility explains her seamless transition from comedy to couture.

The Academy Museum Gala is often referred to as the Met Gala of the West, occurring right after global fashion weeks. This timing allows for runway-inspired looks, including designs from Akris. The proceeds from the event support the museum’s exhibitions, public screenings, and educational programs.

For Waddingham, the evening was an opportunity to reconnect with a venue that has already played a significant role in her year. Her black gown made a striking impression without the need for color, relying solely on texture, shape, and confidence.

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