John Travolta’s shocking new look set the tone for an emotional night at the Cannes Film Festival on Friday, where the star was unexpectedly awarded an honorary Palme d’Or just before the premiere of his film “Propeller One‑Way Night Coach.”
The 72‑year‑old was nearly unrecognizable, rocking a cream‑colored wool beret and a pair of spectacles as he walked the red carpet with his 26‑year‑old daughter, Ella Bleu Travolta. He completed the look with a black suit layered over a knit vest, a white shirt and tie and even added a pocket square and patent‑leather loafers to finish the ensemble.
CANNES, FRANCE – MAY 15: John Travolta and Ella Bleu Travolta attend the “Karma” screening during the 79th annual Cannes Film Festival at Palais des Festivals on May 15, 2026 in Cannes, France. (Photo by JB Lacroix/FilmMagic)
Festival artistic director Thierry Frémaux brought out the surprise award moments before the screening.
A visibly moved Travolta clutched his chest as Frémaux presented the trophy.
“You said this would be a special night, but I didn’t know it would mean this,” he told him, later exclaiming, “This is beyond the Oscar!”
Travolta wrote, directed, and co‑produced “Propeller One‑Way Night Coach,” based on his own 1997 children’s novel.
Cannes has a history of surprising guests with honorary Palmes. Tom Cruise received one in 2022, “Lord of the Rings” filmmaker Peter Jackson was honored during this year’s opening ceremony, and Barbra Streisand is set to receive hers later in the festival.
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