Meg Ryan recently received the Honorary Heart of Sarajevo award at the Sarajevo Film Festival on August 20. This prestigious accolade recognized her significant contributions to the film industry. The 62-year-old actress, who was last seen on the red carpet at the 2024 Met Gala, appeared radiant in a gray tea-length dress, black Prada loafers, and sunglasses, warmly engaging with her fans.
At the award ceremony, Ryan shared the honor with notable figures such as directors Alexander Payne and Elia Suleiman and actor John Turturro. She expressed deep appreciation for the heart-shaped award and acknowledged the festival’s challenging history.
Established in 1995 during the Bosnian War’s Siege of Sarajevo, the festival’s resilience inspired her, and she praised the community’s dedication to preserving art and culture despite adversity.
Ryan was particularly moved by the stories of how the local community continued to support the arts during the siege, viewing it as a form of resistance. She emphasized that their actions demonstrated the power of art and diversity in overcoming hardship and expressed her gratitude, saying, “You are proof that diversity is power, that art is whatever makes you feel less alone.”
Though Meg Ryan has maintained a lower public profile in recent years, she remains outspoken about her son, Jack Quaid, from her previous marriage to Dennis Quaid.
She has publicly defended Jack against the “nepo baby” label, arguing that such dismissals overlook his talent and work ethic. Ryan believes Jack’s achievements in films like “The Hunger Games,” “The Boys,” and “Oppenheimer” are a result of his genuine talent and dedication.
Jack Quaid has responded to his mother’s defense with gratitude and humility, acknowledging her supportive stance while maintaining his own perspective on the criticism. He expressed understanding of his mother’s intentions and affirmed his commitment to his craft, recognizing the importance of hard work in overcoming industry challenges.
