Kate Hudson Celebrates Longtime Friendship with Gwyneth Paltrow

Hudson was presented with the Arlington Artist of the Year Award by Paltrow at the Santa Barbara International Film Festival.

Published on Feb. 17, 2026

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Kate Hudson, who is Oscar-nominated for her performance in Song Sung Blue, was presented with the Arlington Artist of the Year Award at the Santa Barbara International Film Festival by her longtime friend Gwyneth Paltrow. In an exclusive interview with PEOPLE, Hudson gushed about her bond with Paltrow, describing her as a "huge support system" and "the most loyal, beautiful friend" who has been there for her over the years.

Why it matters

The story highlights the enduring friendship between two acclaimed Hollywood actresses, Kate Hudson and Gwyneth Paltrow, who have supported each other both personally and professionally over the course of their careers.

The details

Hudson recalled first meeting Paltrow years ago at a store in Los Angeles, where she "fangirled" over the Oscar winner. The two eventually developed a close friendship, with Paltrow serving as a "huge support system" for Hudson and her family when they lived in England. Paltrow presented Hudson with the Arlington Artist of the Year Award at the Santa Barbara International Film Festival, describing her as a "little sister" and reminiscing about their parents' friendship when they were younger.

  • On February 13, 2026, Kate Hudson was presented with the Arlington Artist of the Year Award at the Santa Barbara International Film Festival.
  • The interview with PEOPLE took place around the time of the award ceremony.

The players

Kate Hudson

A 46-year-old actress who is Oscar-nominated for her performance in Song Sung Blue.

Gwyneth Paltrow

A 53-year-old actress and businesswoman who presented the Arlington Artist of the Year Award to Kate Hudson.

Goldie Hawn

Kate Hudson's mother, whom Gwyneth Paltrow remembers being "starstruck by" when she was younger.

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What they’re saying

“Oh my gosh. I remember seeing Gwyneth at a store in Los Angeles and I was like, 'Oh my gosh, Gwyneth Paltrow,' ”

— Kate Hudson (PEOPLE)

“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.' ”

— Kate Hudson (PEOPLE)

“She's always been there for me, like the most loyal, beautiful friend. And I look up to her.”

— Kate Hudson (PEOPLE)

“I am here because Kate Hudson and I are real, true, old friends. We didn't meet on Glee, but we've known each other for a very long time.”

— Gwyneth Paltrow (PEOPLE)

“She's like a little sister to me. I'm much older than she is, but I remember seeing her when she was little.”

— Gwyneth Paltrow (PEOPLE)

What’s next

Paltrow hinted that she may return to acting more, so fans will be eager to see if she takes on any new roles in the future.

The takeaway

The enduring friendship between Kate Hudson and Gwyneth Paltrow serves as an inspiring example of the power of long-lasting, supportive relationships in Hollywood, where competition and drama often dominate the headlines.