Designer Betsey Johnson, 83, Does Signature Split on Red Carpet at Elton John Oscars Party 2026

The legendary fashion icon continues her decades-long tradition of cartwheels and splits at high-profile events.

Mar. 16, 2026 at 3:33am

Got story updates? Submit your updates here. ›

Betsey Johnson, the 83-year-old fashion designer known for her bold and playful designs, made headlines once again by performing her signature split on the red carpet at the Elton John AIDS Foundation's Academy Awards Viewing Party in West Hollywood, California. Johnson has been doing cartwheels and splits at red carpet events for decades as a way to showcase her flexibility and youthful spirit, even at her advanced age.

Why it matters

Betsey Johnson's continued ability to perform her iconic splits at 83 years old is a testament to her lifelong commitment to health, fitness, and embracing her unique personal style. Her appearance at the Elton John AIDS Foundation event also helped raise awareness for the organization's important work in the global fight against HIV/AIDS.

The details

At the Elton John AIDS Foundation's Academy Awards Viewing Party, Betsey Johnson struck her signature split pose on the red carpet, delighting onlookers with her flexibility and energy. Johnson has been performing cartwheels and splits at high-profile events for decades as a way to express her vibrant personality and joie de vivre. Despite being 83 years old, the legendary fashion designer continues to maintain an active lifestyle that allows her to pull off these acrobatic feats.

  • The Elton John AIDS Foundation's Academy Awards Viewing Party took place on Sunday, March 14, 2026.

The players

Betsey Johnson

An 83-year-old fashion designer known for her bold, colorful designs and her signature red carpet moves, including cartwheels and splits.

Elton John AIDS Foundation

A leading organization in the global response to HIV/AIDS, having raised over $650 million to support over 3,100 projects in 102 countries since 1992.

Got photos? Submit your photos here. ›

What they’re saying

“The cartwheels and splits are a signature of mine. At 80, it sure isn't super easy, but I will continue to split and cartwheel for as long as I can!”

— Betsey Johnson

The takeaway

Betsey Johnson's enduring ability to perform her iconic splits and cartwheels on the red carpet, even at 83 years old, is a testament to her lifelong commitment to health, fitness, and embracing her unique personal style. Her appearance at the Elton John AIDS Foundation event also helped raise awareness for the organization's important work in the global fight against HIV/AIDS.