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Simu Liu was honored with the Gold Mogul Award during the fifth annual Gold House Gold Gala held in Los Angeles on Saturday night. The actor, author, producer and advocate was recognized for his growing influence in Hollywood and for becoming one of the defining Asian Pacific voices in mainstream entertainment.
The award was presented by filmmakers Destin Daniel Cretton and James Wan, both of whom praised Liu for using his platform to champion representation on and off screen. Cretton previously worked with Liu on Shang Chi and the Legend of the Ten Rings while Wan collaborated with him on “The Copenhagen Test.”
During his emotional acceptance speech, Liu reflected on the importance of community and support systems in shaping his journey. He explained that when his family moved to Canada over three decades ago, they lived in a modest apartment building in Ontario alongside other Chinese graduate students. According to Liu, the families built close bonds and constantly supported one another, creating friendships that lasted for years.
“The only reason that I’m here is 10% being too stubborn to give up, and 90%, the most amazing support system,” Liu said while addressing the audience. He added that a true community stands together, supports one another and refuses to tear itself apart.
Liu also spoke about the collective strength within the Asian Pacific entertainment community, pointing out the influence of storytellers, leaders and creators gathered in the room. He emphasized that real progress can only happen when people genuinely support each other beyond public slogans and glamorous events.
The evening’s theme of unity and representation continued throughout the gala. Priyanka Chopra Jonas received the inaugural Global Vanguard Award and echoed Liu’s message about the significance of showing up for one another as a community. During her speech, Chopra Jonas thanked Bing Chen for bringing creatives together every year and helping strengthen the Asian Pacific community.
Chopra Jonas also paid tribute to her mother, Madhu Chopra, describing her as the foundation of her success and praising the strong women who shaped her life. She highlighted the importance of education, resilience and family support while wishing her mother a happy Mother’s Day.
Another major moment of the evening came when Charles Melton received the inaugural Gold Artistic Achievement Award. The “Beef” star opened up about identity, culture and belonging while reflecting on his connection to his character Austin. Melton admitted that he deeply related to the character’s struggle with identity and hiding his Koreanness in order to fit in.
Melton explained that filming in Seoul gave him a chance to reconnect with both his roots and himself as an artist. He credited the Asian Pacific community for inspiring him and helping him reach new heights in his career. According to Melton, one person’s success can open thousands of doors for others.
The gala concluded with remarks from Gold House co founder Bing Chen, who reminded guests that community is built through consistent acts of support and recognition. He emphasized that progress comes from standing together and seeing value in one another even when others do not.
Often referred to as the “Asian Met Gala,” the event attracted major figures from entertainment, media and business. Guests included Adele Lim, Ally Maki and stars from RuPaul’s Drag Race including Nymphia Wind and Plastique Tiara.
The celebration later continued with the Billboard x Gold House Founders Party, where guests enjoyed performances, music and a specially curated menu as the night closed
