Naomi Watts honors David Lynch at San Sebastian Film Festival

The ceremony served as a poignant reunion for the 57-year-old actress, who was presented with the honor by filmmaker J.A. Bayona. Having directed Watts in the 2012 drama The Impossible, Bayona reflected on their shared history, including the grueling shoot where co-star Tom Holland famously joked about the submerged water tank set. For Watts, the evening was less about personal accolades and more about acknowledging the figures who championed her when industry voices suggested her career would expire at 40.

Watts spoke candidly about the persistent ageism she faced throughout her early years, noting that she was once told her prospects would be “all dried up” by middle age. Rejecting the notion that women lose their professional power as they age, she challenged Hollywood to normalize the experience of aging on screen. Holding her award aloft, she concluded her tribute with a direct message to her mentor: “David Lynch, I miss you.”