Meg Ryan continues to charm the world, captivating hearts with her grace and talent. The beloved star of You’ve Got Mail recently made a rare public appearance at the Sarajevo Film Festival in Bosnia and Herzegovina on August 20, where she received the prestigious Honorary Heart of Sarajevo award. This accolade celebrates her remarkable contributions to the film industry and her enduring impact on cinematic culture.
The 62-year-old actress, who last dazzled fans at the 2024 Met Gala alongside designer Michael Kors, was all smiles as she greeted admirers. She wore a chic, tea-length gray dress complemented by black Prada loafers and stylish sunglasses, effortlessly blending sophistication with a touch of casual charm.
During the ceremony, Ryan shared the stage with an array of celebrated artists, including directors Alexander Payne and Elia Suleiman, as well as actor John Turturro, all of whom were honored for their exceptional work in the arts. While receiving her award, Meg expressed deep gratitude, referencing the Sarajevo Film Festival’s history, which emerged during the tumultuous Bosnian War in 1995. Her heartfelt words highlighted the resilience and unity of the festival’s community during a time of great adversity.
In a poignant speech captured on Instagram, Ryan remarked, “It brings me immense joy to stand here today and personally thank you for your incredible example during the siege.” Her genuine emotion resonated as she commended the people of Sarajevo for their bravery and devotion to the arts despite the hardships they faced. “The stories of this community coming together—risking everything to watch films, create music, and celebrate culture—are profoundly moving. You’ve proven that art and culture are powerful forms of resistance,” she added.
Ryan’s tribute didn’t end there. She continued, “This award is not just a symbol; it’s a testament to the spirit of diversity and the power of art to bring people together. Thank you for this heart—you now hold mine.” Her eloquence and sincerity left a lasting impression on the audience.
Although Ryan has maintained a relatively low profile in recent years, her love for her son, Jack Quaid, remains evident in public statements. Jack, the talented actor who has appeared in major projects such as The Hunger Games, The Boys, and Oppenheimer, is often the subject of her admiration. Despite criticism surrounding “nepo babies,” Ryan passionately defends her son’s hard work and talent. Speaking to Glamour in November, she dismissed the label as reductive, emphasizing Jack’s dedication, natural ability, and sensitivity. “He’s incredibly gifted—more than I’ll ever be. That ‘nepo baby’ talk dismisses his efforts and doesn’t acknowledge his genuine skills,” she said.
Interestingly, filmmaking was not a path Ryan initially envisioned for her son. Recalling a moment from Jack’s middle school production of A Midsummer Night’s Dream, she described her realization of his talent. “He was playing Bottom, and I remember sitting there with my head in my hands, thinking, ‘Oh no, he’s really good,’” she shared, adding how both she and her ex-husband, Dennis Quaid, were visibly moved by their son’s performance.
Jack has since responded to his mother’s unwavering support, recognizing it as her way of expressing love and pride. “She’s just being a mom,” Jack noted in a recent interview with The Daily Beast. “I know I work hard and have faced more rejections than acceptances. Her defense is her way of acknowledging that.”
Beyond her family life, Ryan’s cinematic legacy continues to shine. From the groundbreaking When Harry Met Sally to the timeless Sleepless in Seattle, she has solidified her place as an icon of romantic comedies. While some of her films like Addicted to Love and I.Q. may have flown under the radar, classics such as You’ve Got Mail and When Harry Met Sally remain benchmarks of the genre. Her effortless ability to bring humor, depth, and relatability to her roles has made her a favorite among fans and critics alike.
For Ryan, her journey through Hollywood has been marked by unforgettable performances and genuine connections with audiences. As she continues to make rare but impactful public appearances, she proves that her star power is as enduring as ever.