Saban Clinic Gala: Hollywood executives raise $2.2 million for Los Angeles healthcare

Saban Community Clinic raised $2.2 million at its 50th anniversary gala on Monday evening. The event took place in the Crystal Ballroom at the Beverly Hills Hotel and featured a large contingent of studio executives, producers, and actors. The funds will support the clinic's network of seven locations across Los Angeles, including a new 12,000-square-foot facility planned for the Crenshaw corridor.

The night centered on honoring David Nevins, former Showtime chief, and Peter Friedlander, head of Amazon MGM Studios. Richard Weitz, co-chair of the event and a WME executive, led the proceedings. He paid special tribute to Bela Bajaria, who was recently removed as Netflix's chief content officer. Weitz noted that Bajaria had changed the face of the streaming service and deserved the room's applause.

Weitz stated that his remarks were not scripted. He said he wanted to give a moment of recognition to Bajaria because she had worked tirelessly for the industry and the clinic. Bajaria was replaced by Peter Rice during a major corporate restructuring that included layoffs of 1,000 staff members. Weitz also mentioned that he and Bajaria were honored by the clinic together in previous years.

Ellen Hoberman, a longtime advocate for the clinic, addressed the current political climate. She noted that the administration of President Donald Trump has rolled back healthcare policies and cut Medicaid programs. Hoberman urged the audience to vote for leaders who protect healthcare. She said that these changes make it harder for vulnerable populations to access necessary care.

Jimmy Smits and Wanda De Jesus also spoke. They highlighted the removal of protections against immigration enforcement at clinics and schools. Smits said this decision has left families afraid to seek care. He added that doctors and nurses now face the burden of protecting patients from fear and intimidation.

Hoberman's children, Eric and Sarah, surprised their mother with a tribute. Sarah described the work her mother does to organize events, from dyeing towels to assembling centerpieces. David Hoberman said his mother calls people not for herself, but for those who need eye exams, dental care, or medical attention.

David Nevins accepted the Lenny Somberg Volunteer Award. He spoke about the clinic's origins as a free clinic for those with nowhere else to turn. Nevins noted that the clinic continues to serve a city with the largest concentration of uninsured patients in the country. He praised Friedlander for taking over a stable company in Hollywood.