On Thursday, October 5, The Millennium Ball 2006 was held at the new Ronald Reagan UCLA Medical Center. A fundraiser to benefit the newly rebuilt hospital, the evening honored Walt Disney Company CEO Robert Iger for his commitment to excellence in medicine and medical care. Stars in the Walt Disney stable came out to support Iger on the red carpet before the event began.
Interview with JJ Abrams
J.J. Abrams first worked with the Disney movie studio on scripts for Armageddon and Gone Fishin’. Now he’s a staple of the ABC network with Lost and Six Degrees, not to mention the five year run of Alias. He was in a rush so his answers grew increasingly short, but he graciously made his walk towards the entrance doors slow.
What brings you here tonight?
"Well, I’ve been working with Mr. Iger for years. He’s been a supporter of mine and the work that we’ve done. And it’s a great cause so to support him for such a great cause is easy."
You’ve been working at Disney so long, have you noticed a change in tone since Iger took over?
"Not from where I am because I’ve been working with the same people, Mark Pedowitz and especially Steve McPherson so that’s been the same. But Mr. Iger’s been an incredible supporter of the work we’ve done for years so I’m very grateful for that."
Do you have any film projects you want to pitch him for Disney studios?
"Not at the moment but I’d be lucky to work with him."
What is your next film project?
"I’m producing Star Trek so that’s something I’m thrilled about."
Anything to direct?
"Not yet, but looking forward to it."
Are you amused by the Matt Damon rumors?
"I am. I’ve never talked to him about it but I’ve read about it. I thought that was interesting. He’d be great in anything."
