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Rose Byrne Honored as Hasty Pudding's 2026 Woman of the Year
The actress celebrated with a parade and roast in Harvard Square
Published on Feb. 15, 2026
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Actress Rose Byrne was recently celebrated as Harvard's Hasty Pudding Theatricals' 76th Woman of the Year, following actor Michael Keaton who received the honor a week prior. The festivities, which included a parade through Harvard Square and a traditional roast, highlight a long-standing tradition of recognizing accomplished performers.
Why it matters
This event speaks to the continued cultural significance of these types of accolades and the evolving relationship between celebrities and institutions. The Hasty Pudding celebration underscores the enduring appeal of recognizing talent and achievement, while also offering insights into trends in celebrity recognition.
The details
The Hasty Pudding Theatricals have been honoring individuals who have made significant contributions to the performing arts for over 175 years. This year's celebration for Byrne included a parade featuring dancers, improv comedians and a white Bentley, culminating in a roast where she playfully engaged with the cast. The roast, a key component of the Hasty Pudding celebration, blends humor and admiration, with Hasty Pudding President Daisy M. Nussbaum and Cast Vice President Isabel V. S. Wilson leading the roast of Byrne.
- Rose Byrne was recently celebrated as Harvard's Hasty Pudding Theatricals' 76th Woman of the Year.
- Michael Keaton received the Hasty Pudding honor a week prior to Byrne.
The players
Rose Byrne
An actress who has developed a reputation for her versatility, excelling in both comedic and dramatic roles, including the acclaimed 'Bridesmaids.' She recently received a Golden Globe win and her first Oscar nomination for 'If I Had Legs I'd Kick You.'
Hasty Pudding Theatricals
The oldest collegiate musical comedy troupe in the United States, founded in 1844, and known for its annual 'Man' and 'Woman' of the Year awards.
Daisy M. Nussbaum
The Hasty Pudding President who led the roast of Rose Byrne.
Isabel V. S. Wilson
The Hasty Pudding Cast Vice President who led the roast of Rose Byrne.
Chaelon Simpson
The Hasty Pudding's Press and Marketing Manager who described Rose Byrne as 'one of the kindest souls' he had ever met.
What they’re saying
“One of the kindest souls I've ever met.”
— Chaelon Simpson, Hasty Pudding's Press and Marketing Manager
What’s next
The Hasty Pudding Theatricals will continue their tradition of honoring accomplished performers, with the next 'Man' and 'Woman' of the Year awards expected to be announced in the coming months.
The takeaway
The Hasty Pudding celebration, while steeped in tradition, offers insights into evolving trends in celebrity recognition, including a shift towards more relatable and authentic interactions between celebrities and the public, as well as an increased emphasis on versatility, artistic range, and social impact.
