Jennifer Aniston’s Heartfelt Tribute to Friends: A Lifetime of Gratitude as She Accepts Icon Award at People’s Choice Awards

Since rising to stardom as Rachel Green on the hit NBC show Friends in 1994, Jennifer Aniston has been incredibly popular. At the 2019 People’s Choice Awards in LA, she expressed her gratitude to the show for all the doors it opened for her. The 50-year-old actress became emotional as she looked back on her journey and the unwavering support of her fans who have stood by her throughout her career, leading her to receive the prestigious People’s Icon Award.

Feted: Jennifer Aniston was honored with the People's Icon Award at the 2019 People's Choice Award sin LA on Sunday night

Celebrated: Jennifer Aniston was given the prestigious People’s Icon Award at the 2019 People’s Choice Awards in Los Angeles on a memorable Sunday night. Adam Sandler, her co-star in the popular Netflix film Murder Mystery, had the pleasure of presenting the award to Aniston. During his speech, Sandler affectionately referred to the actress as ‘one of my closest friends’ and praised her for not only being beautiful but also for being an ‘exceptionally compassionate role model with a heart of gold’. Expressing his love for Aniston and their collaboration on movies, he expressed his hope for more joint projects in the future. Aniston, in turn, expressed her gratitude for the ‘extraordinary privilege’ of being recognized with the Icon Award.

Praised: Adam Sandler, her co-star in the Netflix movie Murder Mystery, presented Aniston with the trophy, calling her 'one of my best friends' and an 'incredibly caring role model

Adam Sandler, who starred alongside her in the Netflix film Murder Mystery, commended Jennifer Aniston by awarding her the trophy. He described her as ‘one of my closest friends’ and a ‘remarkably compassionate person to look up to.’

Pals: The two shared a warm hug on stage

Friends: The duo embraced each other affectionately in the spotlight.

Emotional: After collecting her trophy, the actress, 50, gushed about the 'incredible honor' of receiving the Icon Award

Overwhelmed with emotion, the 50-year-old actress expressed her gratitude for being honored with the Icon Award. Aniston, in her acceptance speech, shared how special the People’s Choice Awards are to her amidst the sea of accolades in Hollywood.

She humorously quipped about actors not doing it for the money but for the audience, the fans. Reflecting on her iconic status, she credited her time on Friends for shaping her career and helping her reach this pinnacle.

Aniston didn’t forget to mention her new show, The Morning Show, and expressed her heartfelt thanks to her loyal fans for their unwavering support throughout her journey.

Acceptance speech: 'This town puts out a lot of awards but People's Choice has always been special to me,' Aniston said. She's won a total of seven People's Choice Awards over the years

During her acceptance speech, Aniston expressed her appreciation for the People’s Choice Awards, stating that while this town gives out many awards, this particular one holds a special place in her heart. Throughout the years, she has been honored with a total of seven People’s Choice Awards.

Credited Friends for her success: 'If I have any claim to this word icon, it was only because I was able to be on an iconic show with an iconic cast and an iconic haircut,' Aniston mused

Aniston attributed her success to her friends, saying, “I only consider myself an icon because I was part of a legendary show with an amazing cast and a memorable hairstyle.”

Sitcom paved the way: 'Friends was truly the gift of a lifetime and I would not be standing up here without that fantastic show and that fantastic cast,' she explained

A popular TV show helped her succeed: ‘Friends was a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity that I am grateful for. Without the amazing show and talented cast, I wouldn’t be where I am today,’ she said gratefully.

Grateful: 'Thank you for being on this journey with me, thank you for sticking by me,' she told her fans

Expressing her gratitude to her fans, she said, “Thank you for being a part of this journey, thank you for your unwavering support.” Jennifer Aniston was recently honored with the People’s Icon Award, making her only the second recipient of this prestigious recognition. The award was first introduced in 2018 and was last presented to Melissa McCarthy.

E! described Aniston as a powerhouse in the entertainment industry, known for portraying memorable and relatable characters throughout her career. They praised her ability to seamlessly shift between comedy and drama, both on television and in movies, leading to her being awarded The People’s Icon of 2019.

With a string of successful films under her belt such as Office Space, Along Came Polly, Bruce Almighty, Marley & Me, Horrible Bosses, We’re the Millers, and Cake, Aniston’s talent has been recognized with numerous accolades including seven People’s Choice Awards, a Golden Globe, and an Emmy.

Honor: Aniston received the People's Icon Award for being 'a tour de force, who has portrayed some of the most iconic, unforgettable and relatable characters of our time'

Recognition: Aniston was honored with the People’s Icon Award for being a powerhouse in the entertainment industry, known for bringing to life some of the most memorable and universally loved characters of our generation.

Phenomenally successful: Aniston starred in friends from 1994 to 2004 along with David Schwimmer, Courteney Cox, Matt LeBlanc, Lisa Kudrow and Matthew Perry

Aniston had a tremendously successful run on the hit TV show Friends, where she co-starred with David Schwimmer, Courteney Cox, Matt LeBlanc, Lisa Kudrow, and Matthew Perry from 1994 to 2004.

Together again! On October 15, Aniston broke the internet when she joined Instagram with a group selfie of all of her fellow former co-stars

Reunited at last! Aniston caused quite a stir on October 15 when she finally made her debut on Instagram, sharing a fabulous group selfie featuring her Friends co-stars. Last month, the actress made waves by joining the social media platform and treating fans to a snapshot with Courteney Cox, Lisa Kudrow, David Schwimmer, Matt LeBLanc, and Matthew Perry.
Her arrival on Instagram only added to the evidence of her enduring popularity. Aniston captured hearts during her decade-long run on Friends from 1994 to 2004, even inspiring a generation of fans to copy her iconic ‘Rachel cut’.
Following the success of Friends, Aniston ventured into the world of movies in the late 90s and has since become a fixture in romantic comedies and comedy films on the big screen.

Aniston got emotional as she listened to Sandler praising her as a friend and a co-star

She later teased him his speech had been 'mushy'

Touched: Aniston felt moved as she heard Sandler complimenting her as both a friend and a colleague. Playfully, she later joked that his speech was a bit too sentimental.

In the spotlight: Sandler, 53, and Aniston were back on stage later after their Netflix film Murder Mystery was announced as the winner of the award for Comedy Movie of 2019

Featured in the limelight were Sandler, age 53, and Aniston as they returned to the stage following the announcement that their Netflix movie, Murder Mystery, had won the award for Best Comedy Movie of 2019.

Streaming flick: The film starred the pair as a couple on vacation in Europe who are framed for the murder of an elderly billionaire

Movie on demand: The film featured the duo as a couple taking a holiday in Europe when they are falsely accused of killing a wealthy older man.

Celebrity duo: The two pals posed together backstage

Famous pair: The two friends took a photo together behind the scenes

It'smine: The former Friends star genuinely seemed delighted with her Icon Award

It was obvious that the former star of the hit TV show Friends was genuinely thrilled to receive the Icon Award. Her personal life has been the subject of much media attention, especially her relationships. Back in 1998, she began dating the Hollywood heartthrob Brad Pitt, and the two tied the knot in 2000. Unfortunately, the high-profile couple called it quits just five years later when Pitt started a relationship with his Mr. & Mrs. Smith co-star, Angelina Jolie. In 2011, Jennifer Aniston found love again with actor Justin Theroux, and they got married in 2015, but sadly, they separated in 2017. Recently, she was recognized by the SAG-AFTRA Foundation for her charitable work, which includes supporting organizations like St. Jude Children’s Research Hospital and an orphanage in Tijuana, Mexico, along with other charities such as Project ALS, the EIF Women’s Cancer Research Fund, and Feeding America. Aniston has also generously donated hundreds of thousands of dollars to help with relief efforts following natural disasters like the Haiti earthquake and hurricanes Harvey, Irma, and Maria.

Personal life made headlines too: In 1998 Aniston started dating Brad Pitt and the two married in 2000. The A-list couple, pictured in 2004, split, however, just five years later in 2015

In 1998, Aniston’s personal life became the talk of the town when she began a romantic relationship with Brad Pitt, eventually tying the knot in 2000. The high-profile couple, seen together in 2004, unfortunately called it quits after five years of marriage in 2005.

Second marriage: In 2011, Aniston began a relationship with actor Justin Theroux. They tied the knot in 2015 and separated in 2017. They're pictured in February 2017

Aniston entered into her second marriage with actor Justin Theroux in 2015 after starting a romance with him in 2011. Unfortunately, their relationship came to an end in 2017. A photo of the couple together was taken in February of that year.

He's a fan: Will & Grace star Sean Hayes took the opportunity to get his picture snapped with Aniston and Sandler backstage

He’s a big admirer: Sean Hayes, known for his role in Will & Grace, made sure to grab a photo with Jennifer Aniston and Adam Sandler behind the scenes.

Singled out: Another recipient of a special award was Gwen Stefani, seen here posing backstage with Aniston

Gwen Stefani was honored with the Fashion Icon Award by Moschino designer Jeremy Scott. The 50-year-old singer looked stunning in a custom Scott gown as she accepted the trophy and gave a special shout-out to her partner, Blake Shelton, jokingly calling herself an ‘Icon.’ Stefani credited her mom and grandmother for her lifelong love of fashion, describing it as ‘instinctual.’ She expressed gratitude towards the fashion professionals in her life, acknowledging the talented designers who have influenced her style. The No Doubt frontwoman dedicated the award to her son Zuma and sent a heartfelt ‘I love you’ to Shelton, her fellow The Voice co-star. Shelton, a country music star, also received an award that night as the Country Artist Of 2019.

Stylish star: Stefani was presented with the People's Choice Fashion Icon Award by Moschino designer Jeremy Scott

Fashion forward celebrity Stefani was honored with the Fashion Icon Award at the People’s Choice Awards, presented by designer Jeremy Scott from Moschino.

Thrilled: The singer, 50, naturally wore a custom Scott gown for the occasion and after collecting her trophy, she gave a shout-out to beau Blake Shelton, saying 'Look, Icon!'

Excited: The 50-year-old singer looked stunning in a Scott gown specially made for the event. After receiving her award, she couldn’t help but give a sweet shout-out to her partner Blake Shelton, calling him her ‘Icon!’

In her genes: Stefani credited her lifelong love of clothes to her mom and grandmother, calling it an 'instinctual' part of her

Inherited Style: Stefani attributed her enduring passion for fashion to her mother and grandmother, describing it as a natural part of who she is.

Celebration: Shelton himself didn't go home empty handed; he was the winner of the award for Country Artist Of 2019

Party time: Shelton didn’t leave the event empty-handed; he took home the title of Country Artist of the Year for 2019.

US soccer icon Alex Morgan bestowed Pink with the People’s Champion Award in recognition of her commitment to social activism, advocacy, and charitable work.
Pink, aged 40, revealed a bit about her upbringing that ignited her passions, mentioning that she was raised in a family deeply rooted in activism. “My mother was an ER nurse, and my father was known as Mr. Cause. I’ve been participating in marches in Washington since I was just 3 years old,” she shared.
Despite political differences, Pink emphasized her focus on the well-being of children and the values of kindness, decency, and humanity. “What matters to me is not your political views but the welfare of your children,” she expressed.
Pink ended her speech by highlighting the significance of kindness in today’s world, portraying it as an act of rebellion. “There are people who are less privileged than you. By aiding them, we can make a difference in this world that is in dire need of help. It brings a sense of gratification and empowerment to be of assistance,” she concluded.

Good works: US soccer star Alex Morgan presented singer Pink with the People's Champion Award for her dedication to activism, advocacy and philanthropy

US soccer sensation Alex Morgan honored singer Pink with the prestigious People’s Champion Award for her commitment to activism, advocacy, and philanthropic efforts.

Engaged in fight: Pink, 40, spoke about how her background influenced her passions, saying she was born into an 'activist family' and has been 'marching on Washington' since age three

Involved in battle: Forty-year-old Pink discussed how her upbringing shaped her interests, sharing that she comes from a family of activists and has been participating in protests in Washington since she was just three years old.

Passionate: 'I don't care about your politics, I care about your kids,' the mom of two said. 'I care about decency and humanity and kindness'

Eager: “I’m not interested in your political beliefs, but I’m definitely concerned about your children,” declared the mother of two. “What matters most to me is decency, empathy, and compassion.”

Zendaya, 23, had a fantastic night at the People’s Choice Awards on Sunday, winning two awards. She snagged the title of Female Movie Star of 2019 for her role in Spider-Man Close To Home and also took home the Drama TV Star of 2019 award for her outstanding performance in HBO’s Euphoria.
Another big winner of the night was Cole Sprouse, 27, who also walked away with two awards. He won Drama Movie Star Of 2019 for his work in Five Feet Apart, a movie dedicated to cystic fibrosis patients, and also clinched the title of Male TV Star Of 2019 for his role in Riverdale.
Heartthrob Noah Centineo, 23, was awarded Comedy Movie Star Of 2019 for his performance in The Perfect Date. In his acceptance speech, he expressed his gratitude to his fans, acknowledging that they are the reason behind his success and platform. He emphasized the importance of using one’s achievements to make the world a better place for others.

Two trophies: Zendaya, 23, took home the People's Choice Awards for Female Movie Star of 2019 for Spider-Man Close To Home and Drama TV Star of 2019 for her role on HBO's Euphoria

Zendaya, at the age of 23, won two trophies at the People’s Choice Awards. She snagged the awards for Female Movie Star of 2019 for her performance in Spider-Man Close To Home, as well as Drama TV Star of 2019 for her role in HBO’s Euphoria.

Double winner: Cole Sprouse, 27, won Drama Movie Star Of 2019 for Five Feet Apart and also Male TV Star Of 2019 for Riverdale

Cole Sprouse, aged 27, clinched two victories at the recent awards ceremony. He scooped up the accolade for Drama Movie Star Of 2019 for his role in Five Feet Apart, as well as the title of Male TV Star Of 2019 for his performance in Riverdale.

Heartthrob: Comedy Movie Star Of 2019 went to hNoah Centineo for The Perfect Date. 'Thank you, everyone, at home. You are the reason I'm on this stage,' the actor, 23, said

Heartthrob award for Best Comedy Movie Star of 2019 was presented to Noah Centineo for his role in The Perfect Date. Greeting his fans watching at home, the 23-year-old actor expressed his gratitude, acknowledging them as the driving force behind his success on the big screen.

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