On March 26, 2025, the New York Women in Film & Television (NYWIFT) hosted its 45th Annual Muse Awards inside the grandeur of Cipriani 42nd Street in New York City.
The event honored pioneering women in film, television, and media, recognizing their contributions to storytelling, representation, and industry transformation.
The awards ceremony drew an illustrious crowd of industry luminaries, activists, and media professionals, all gathered to celebrate the accomplishments of this year’s distinguished honorees including Pamela Anderson, Marissa Bode, Lisa Cortés, Celia Costas, Amy Entelis, and Versha Sharma.
This year’s Muse Award honorees represented a dynamic cross-section of talent and impact. Golden Globe and SAG Award-nominated actress Pamela Anderson received accolades for her riveting performance in The Last Showgirl, marking another powerful chapter in her career.
Marissa Bode, a fierce advocate for disability rights and a rising star in Wicked, was recognized with the prestigious Loreen Arbus Changemaker Award for her efforts in pushing for greater inclusivity in entertainment.
“Remember that you are powerful too. Remember that there are other young girls out there that are watching and are inspired to do what you do ,”
Bode remarked.
Renowned director and producer Lisa Cortés, whose documentary Little Richard: I Am Everything captivated audiences worldwide, was celebrated for her storytelling excellence. Cortés shared,
“As a filmmaker I strive to pay it forward. To share with today’s audiences the stories of hope and struggle that are increasingly at risk of erasure.”
Emmy-winning producer Celia Costas received the “Made in NY” Award, presented by the Mayor’s Office of Media and Entertainment, in recognition of her exceptional contributions to New York’s film industry.
CNN’s Amy Entelis, a driving force behind the network’s talent and creative development, was honored for her visionary leadership.
Reflecting on her contributions, Entelis emphasized her commitment to what she believes is “the most important pillar of a free society—keeping people informed with the highest quality journalism.”
Versha Sharma, the first Indian American Editor-in-Chief of Teen Vogue, was the recipient of NYWIFT’s Enid Roth Award for Excellence in Journalism, acknowledging her impact on shaping modern media narratives.
Story by Sophia Steele
Photos by Dia Dipasupil/Getty Images
