By KAT KRAMER  June 14, 2019 : The Tolucan Times

Well folks, I was excited to bring my mother Karen Sharpe-Kramer to the 23rd Annual Tony Party on June 9 to benefit The Actors Fund.

It was especially special because my performing idol Lily Tomlin received the prestigious Julie Harris Award for Artistic Achievement.

My late father Stanley Kramer had discovered Julie Harris back in the 1950’s when he saw her on Broadway in The Member of the Wedding as “Frankie” Addams. He optioned the rights to Carson McCuller’s play, and starred Julie in the film version where she was nominated for an Academy Award.

What’s even more magical is that Lily plays a “Frankie” on her hit Netflix comedy series Grace and Frankie and both characters share similar traits, even though Frankie Addams is a 12-year-old, and Frankie Bergstein is an adult, both feel disconnected and the need to belong.

Lily herself believes “we’re all connected” as humans on this planet. It was fitting that she be recognized by The Actors Fund at the Tony Awards Viewing Gala, because Tomlin herself has won two Tony Awards. The first honor was a special Tony as the first woman to star on Broadway in a solo show, Appearing Nitely in 1977 and the second was in 1986 for the groundbreaking one-person play The Search for Signs of Intelligent Life in the Universe written by Lily’s life partner, Jane Wagner.

Over the past month, Lily Tomlin has been getting plenty of accolades. On May 19, Jane Fonda, her Grace and Frankie co-star, presented her with the “Distinction In Theatre Award” at the 17th Annual “Backstage At The Geffen” along with Harry Belafonte, who was honored with the Artistic Impact Award (accepted by his daughter Gina Belafonte). On June 6, Tomlin and Wagner were the recipients of the Hollywood Trailblazer Award at the 7th Annual “Real To Reel” Exhibit and kick-off celebration of Pride Week at The Hollywood Museum.

When I say, “Everything’s coming up Lily” it’s because she is being feted for being an icon, and giving back, helping the most vulnerable in our society. Tomlin advocates for women’s equality, LGBTQ issues, the environment and animal rights, especially elephants.

Lily has proven to be an Unmatched Inspiration for future generations.

Live your dreams… Kat