The evening kicked off with director Steven Spielberg taking the stage, where he opened the floor with a cheeky question to former FBI Director Louis Freeh about the merits of 22-year-olds, to which Freeh deflected humorously, keeping up with the night’s playful tone. As the conversations flowed, playful jabs about past scandals ensued, particularly targeted at Freeh, who somehow managed to be at the center of it all.

David Ellison injected some intrigue by referencing the infamous LimeWire scandal, leading to uproarious laughter among the guests. Shari Redstone highlighted her own company’s past in the context of distribution, showcasing the ever-present intertwining of entertainment and controversy.

Ultimately bringing the laughter full circle, Spielberg concluded the event with a toast to Freeh, making a lighthearted quip about his ability to sidestep scandal on par with Biden’s tax evasions, a moment that left many in stitches. As the night ended, Freeh made a discreet exit, reflecting on the peculiarities of his unique career path.