Kate Hudson Honored as Arlington Artist of the Year at SBIFF

Gwyneth Paltrow presents her longtime friend with the prestigious award.

Published on Feb. 16, 2026

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Actress Kate Hudson was honored with the Santa Barbara International Film Festival's Arlington Artist of the Year Award on Friday night. Longtime friend Gwyneth Paltrow presented Hudson with the award, highlighting her successful career spanning nearly 25 years in Hollywood. Hudson reflected on her start in the industry, her breakout role in "Almost Famous," and her passion for making movies that entertain audiences.

Why it matters

Kate Hudson is one of Hollywood's most beloved and successful actresses, known for her roles in popular romantic comedies as well as acclaimed dramas. Her recognition by the Santa Barbara International Film Festival as the Arlington Artist of the Year celebrates her contributions to the film industry and her enduring popularity with audiences.

The details

During the tribute, moderator Scott Feinberg took Hudson through a retrospective of her career, starting with her childhood growing up on movie sets with her famous parents, Goldie Hawn and Kurt Russell. Hudson discussed her breakout role in the 2000 film "Almost Famous," for which she received an Oscar nomination, as well as her string of successful romantic comedies over the years. She emphasized her passion for making movies that entertain people and her desire to continue working in an industry she loves.

  • The Santa Barbara International Film Festival Arlington Artist of the Year Awards ceremony took place on February 13, 2026.
  • Hudson is set to start college at NYU, though she took a year off to film "Almost Famous" in 2000.
  • Hudson's oldest son is graduating from NYU in May 2026, while her other children are in high school and elementary school.

The players

Kate Hudson

An acclaimed actress known for her roles in films such as "Almost Famous," "How to Lose a Guy in 10 Days," and "Glass Onion: A Knives Out Mystery." She was honored as the Santa Barbara International Film Festival's Arlington Artist of the Year.

Gwyneth Paltrow

A longtime friend of Kate Hudson who presented her with the Arlington Artist of the Year Award. Paltrow and Hudson have had parallel experiences in Hollywood, including both marrying rock stars.

Scott Feinberg

The moderator who led the tribute to Kate Hudson's career at the Santa Barbara International Film Festival awards ceremony.

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What they’re saying

“I've loved movies my entire life. And I grew up watching two actor parents navigate intense schedules and seeing how this work pulls you away from family, and I still chose this life, and I think the reason is because when you love something this much, it's not really a choice.”

— Kate Hudson (independent.com)

“The goal is to make a great movie that lives forever.”

— Kate Hudson (independent.com)

What’s next

Hudson's oldest son is set to graduate from NYU in May 2026, marking a significant milestone for the actress and her family.

The takeaway

Kate Hudson's recognition as the Arlington Artist of the Year at the Santa Barbara International Film Festival celebrates her enduring popularity and acclaimed body of work in Hollywood, spanning nearly 25 years. Her passion for making entertaining films that resonate with audiences is a testament to her talent and dedication to the craft.