Kate Hudson expressed deep gratitude for her enduring friendship with Gwyneth Paltrow during the Santa Barbara International Film Festival on February 13. At the event, Hudson received the Arlington Artist of the Year Award, which was presented by Paltrow, highlighting their close bond. This moment also provided Hudson an opportunity to reflect on the supportive role Paltrow has played in her life and career, emphasizing the significance of their connection.
From Fan to Friend: The Beginning of a Lasting Relationship
Hudson recounted their initial encounter, describing a moment of admiration that quickly turned into a meaningful friendship. She shared,
“Oh my gosh. I remember seeing Gwyneth at a store in Los Angeles and I was like, ‘Oh my gosh, Gwyneth Paltrow,’”
capturing the sense of excitement she felt meeting Paltrow for the first time. Hudson confessed to closely following Paltrow’s style, recalling,
“I watched like a crazy fan. I watched all the things she put on, and then I was like, ‘Oh, I’m buying those,’ and I think I bought everything that she bought that day. I was like, ‘I’m just going to get everything she’s wearing.’”
The Support System Across Continents
The actress explained how their friendship blossomed over time, especially during a period when they both lived in England.
“But yeah, as it happens, we got to know each other throughout the years,”
Hudson told PEOPLE. She added,
“We lived in England at the same time, and she was a huge support system for me and my son,”
underlining Paltrow’s steadfast presence during important chapters of Hudson’s life.
‘Auntie Gwyneth’ and a Role Model to Her Children
Hudson warmly described Paltrow’s role in her family, saying that the Oscar winner is affectionately known as Auntie Gwyneth to her three children—sons Ryder, 22, and Bingham “Bing,” 14, as well as daughter Rani, 7. Reflecting on the depth of their connection, Hudson shared,
“She’s always been there for me, like the most loyal, beautiful friend. And I look up to her.”
She praised Paltrow’s authenticity and strength, remarking,
“as strong as anybody I’ve ever met, and she’s so talented, and seeing her in Marty Supreme made me miss her on film.”
Admiration for Paltrow’s Return to Acting
Hudson’s enthusiasm for Paltrow’s recent acting work was evident as she described her excitement seeing her friend back on screen.
“She’s so insanely beautiful. She’s such a star, and she’s so talented, so I got really excited,”
Hudson said of Paltrow’s role in Marty Supreme. She added with curiosity,
“You should ask her if she’s going to keep doing it because I want to know the answer.”
Paltrow Reflects on Their Long-Standing Friendship
During the award presentation, Gwyneth Paltrow acknowledged their enduring bond, calling Hudson her “little sister.”
“I am here because Kate Hudson and I are real, true, old friends,”
Paltrow said.
“We didn’t meet on Glee, but we’ve known each other for a very long time.”
Although both actresses appeared on the hit teen show Glee, Paltrow emphasized their friendship predates the series.
Paltrow fondly recalled their parents’ friendship as well:
“Our parents were friendly, and I remember seeing them. I remember them hugging outside of a restaurant called 72 Market Street in Venice, and being starstruck by her mom, of course,”
referencing Hudson’s mother, Goldie Hawn.
A Night Celebrating Friendship and Achievement
Both Hudson and Paltrow attended the festival in pink gowns, sharing smiles and posing for photos that reflected their joyful rapport. Hudson’s nomination for the upcoming 98th Academy Awards for her role in Song Sung Blue added a celebratory tone to the evening, underscoring a moment of professional and personal triumph.
The Enduring Impact of Their Friendship
The connection between Kate Hudson and Gwyneth Paltrow exemplifies a loyal, supportive friendship that has lasted through years of life changes and career milestones. As Hudson’s children know Paltrow as “Auntie Gwyneth,” this relationship extends beyond friendship into family. The warmth and mutual admiration displayed during this event highlight how such bonds can provide comfort and strength, especially in the demanding world of fame.
Looking ahead, both actresses continue to inspire with their artistic pursuits and personal resilience, leaving fans eager to see more collaborations or appearances from Paltrow, whose return to acting has sparked renewed interest. For Hudson, the support from a longtime friend like Paltrow remains a vital source of encouragement as she advances in her career.
