Dozens of enthusiastic fans gathered in Cambridge on Friday to celebrate Australian actress Rose Byrne, who was set to be honored as the 2026 Woman of the Year by Harvard University’s Hasty Pudding Theatricals. The ceremony included a parade in her honor, showcasing her impressive career.
Byrne, recognized for her roles in acclaimed films such as “If I Had Legs I’d Kick You,” waved to fans and expressed her gratitude as she traveled past the Harvard campus. She is also well-known for her performances in “Bridesmaids,” “Neighbors,” “Insidious,” and “Damages.” The celebration will culminate in a roast where she will receive the prestigious pudding pot award, followed by a performance of the Hasty Pudding Theatricals’ new production, “Salooney Tunes.”
Critically acclaimed for her dramatic prowess, Byrne received a glowing review from the Associated Press for her role in “If I Had Legs I’d Kick You,” highlighting her versatility and resilience in what might be the toughest role of her career. Harvard junior Jacqueline Metzger expressed her excitement, citing the film as the best she had seen in years, showing admiration for Byrne’s talent.
Rachel Spurling, recently crowned Miss Cambridge, shared her enthusiasm for participating in the parade. She noted the significance of celebrating both the arts and women in the community during this event.
The parade was marked by a vibrant diversity of costumes, including characters in drag, bright wigs, and even a participant dressed as a cactus. The festivities concluded at Farkas Hall, where Byrne was set to be roasted, and she joined the Hasty Pudding Theatricals cast for some lively dance.
In addition to Byrne’s honor, actor Michael Keaton, celebrated for his roles in iconic films, was recognized as the 2026 Man of the Year. He received his pudding pot earlier in February.
Daisy Nussbaum, President of the Hasty Pudding Theatricals, expressed excitement about honoring Byrne, remarking on her recent Golden Globe win and Oscar nomination, emphasizing the significance of the pudding pot award in recognizing her achievements.
The Hasty Pudding Theatricals is the oldest theatrical organization in the United States and has a storied history of bestowing this honor on notable women in the arts, including Meryl Streep, Julia Roberts, and Scarlett Johansson, with Cynthia Erivo being the winner of the previous year.
Byrne’s career spans various genres, including her roles in “Juliet, Naked,” “Get Him to the Greek,” and “28 Weeks Later.” Her stage work includes acclaimed performances such as “Medea” at the Brooklyn Academy of Music, and she is slated to star alongside Kelli O’Hara in the revival of “Fallen Angels” on Broadway commencing in March.