Phoenix Rising: From Heartache to Heroism
Chapter 644 Who Will Win Best Actress?

Even though Violeta sympathized with Ophelia's situation, there could only be one Best Actress. Naturally, she hoped it would be her.

The awards ceremony kicked off smoothly, following the usual routine. The familiar hosts were on stage, and the audience greeted them with enthusiastic applause. Violeta joined in with polite clapping. Years ago, when Nolan won his first Best Actor Award, she was in the audience. She silently wished that one day she would also have the chance to step onto that stage. Her dream might become a reality tonight.

The awards were being handed out one after another, accompanied by continuous applause from the crowd.

Kaylee leaned in and whispered, "Vio, it looks like Ophelia didn't show up."

Violeta responded, "Yes, I noticed that as well."

Kaylee added, "You have a strong chance of winning Best Actress tonight."

Violeta replied, "I hope so, but we'll see if it's meant to be."

Kaylee smiled encouragingly. "I believe in you. Have confidence in yourself."

With Red Lamp being so well-written and innovative, and its box office success, it nearly swept the awards, including Best Director, Best Screenplay, and several others. The director from Red Lamp wore a constant smile.

Half an hour later, it was time for the Best Actor and Actress awards.

Two presenters took the stage, scripts in hand, ready to announce the winners.

"The winner of this year's Best Actor is ...

"Wallace Ziegler from Red Lamp!"

The audience erupted in applause.

"It's indeed Wallace."

A tall, striking man in the front row stood up, smiled at the crowd, adjusted his suit, and walked to the stage.

Whispers spread through the

audience "It's not surprising. He's the best. I heard that Red Lamp also performed well internationally t isn't an exaggeration to call ita masterpiece."

en Narugi

Wallace, the Best Actor, wasn't widely known. He'd been working in the industry for 20 years, experiencing many highs and lows.

He was a late bloomer who struggled early on, but as he aged, he developed a mature charm.

Now, he had finally received the recognition he deserved, and his emotional acceptance speech brought a hint of redness to his eyes. After Wallace left the stage with his trophy, the presenters moved on to the next award. "So, what's next?"

"It's the Best Actress Award. I wonder who's the winner tonight. Let me see ... Oh, it's her!"

"The actresses nominated this year are both stunning and talented. Let's review their films."

The big screen displayed clips from the nominated films one by one, starting with exciting scenes from Dawn and followed by The Island. The clips showcased the highlights of those movies.

Violeta watched the scenes and remembered working on them.

She had teamed up with Chad for The Island and The Golden Age, achieving success together.

Unfortunately, Red Lamp was too strong, and Chad didn't win the Best Actor Award.

His chances of winning the Best Actor Award with The Island seemed slim compared to the veteran actors in the film.

As the clips ended, the camera focused on the faces of the female leads from the nominated films.

The presenter mentioned Ophelia's

absence with a touch of regret,

saying, Unfortunately, Ophelia.

couldn't be here tonight due to health issues. I'm sure she's watching from home."

By mentioning Ophelia, the presenter built suspense. Some began speculating whether Ophelia was the Best Actress and if the award would be accepted by her co-star, Hugo.

The presenter dragged out the moment for effect. Finally, holding the script, she slowly announced, "The winner of the 54th Best Actress award is. The camera quickly shifted to capture the moment.

...