New Girl Cast Reunites at Chrysalis Butterfly Ball for Rising Phoenix Award

The beloved cast of the television series "New Girl" is coming together once more for a significant cause. They are slated to receive the esteemed Rising Phoenix Award at the annual Chrysalis Butterfly Ball, an event dedicated to celebrating resilience and second chances. This gathering also highlights the ongoing efforts of Chrysalis, a non-profit organization that has empowered tens of thousands to secure stable employment and build brighter futures, irrespective of their past challenges.

Celebrated Cast Honored at Chrysalis Butterfly Ball in Los Angeles

On October 10th, the stars of the acclaimed series "New Girl"—Zooey Deschanel, Max Greenfield, Jake Johnson, Lamorne Morris, Hannah Simone, and Damon Wayans Jr.—are scheduled to reunite in Los Angeles. The ensemble will be presented with the Rising Phoenix Award at the Chrysalis Butterfly Ball, an honor that acknowledges the show's core message of starting anew and the individuals who make such fresh starts possible. This recognition aligns perfectly with the mission of Chrysalis, which champions the idea that everyone deserves an opportunity to rebuild their lives.

Interestingly, earlier reports of a full-fledged show reunion were sparked by actor Max Greenfield, who will also serve as host for the evening. Greenfield humorously confessed to a misunderstanding, having only read the subject line of an email that mentioned a "New Girl" reunion. He expressed his hope that this lighthearted mix-up would not overshadow the important work of the organization. The event will also see Jared Wolff, Chairman and CEO of Banc of California, honored with the Corporate Trailblazer Award.

Mark Loranger, President and CEO of Chrysalis, emphasized the symbolic connection between the honorees and the organization's work. He noted that both the "New Girl" cast, with its narrative of characters navigating life changes, and Jared Wolff, through his leadership and investment in Los Angeles communities, embody the spirit of resilience and transformation. Since its inception in 1984, Chrysalis has assisted over 95,000 individuals across Southern California. In 2025 alone, the organization helped nearly 2,200 clients find employment, with close to 1,600 participating in its transitional job program. The 2026 event will be supported by honorary co-chairs including Betsy Beers and Chris Hart, and sponsors such as The Chuck Lorre Family Foundation and US Bank. Previous recipients of Butterfly Ball honors include notable figures like Salma Hayek, Jennifer Hudson, and Queen Latifah.

This event serves as a powerful reminder of the impact storytelling can have, both on screen and in real life. The theme of new beginnings, so central to "New Girl," beautifully mirrors the work of Chrysalis, which provides tangible support and hope to individuals striving for a better life. It underscores the idea that compassion and opportunity can genuinely change trajectories, fostering a society where second chances are not just wished for, but actively created. Witnessing public figures lend their platforms to such a vital cause inspires greater awareness and participation, encouraging others to contribute to community-building efforts and support those seeking to transform their circumstances.