Julian Benson, the beloved Dancing With The Stars judge and choreographer who died in April after a battle with cystic fibrosis, was honoured on Saturday when RTE presenter Miriam O’Callaghan and Virgin Media star Elaine Crowley co‑hosted the 2026 Julian Benson Winter Wonderland Gala Ball in aid of Tranquillity House.
- Event: 2026 Julian Benson Winter Wonderland Gala Ball
- When & Where: Saturday night at the Clayton Hotel, Ballsbridge, Dublin
- Hosts: Miriam O’Callaghan (RTE) and Elaine Crowley (Virgin Media)
- Purpose: Fundraising for Tranquillity House and the Julian Benson Cystic Fibrosis Foundation
- Attendance: Over 400 guests; the first family moved into Tranquillity House that day
The annual charity ball — held every year since 2018 — marked the first celebration of Benson’s foundation in his absence, but the room was full of purpose and emotion as friends, colleagues and supporters rallied to continue his work for children with cystic fibrosis.
An image from the night showed Miriam O’Callaghan in a striking pink gown alongside Elaine Crowley, who chose an elegant gold-fringed dress by Irish designer Karen Millen. The pair posed for selfies before taking to the stage to lead fundraising proceedings.
Entertainment for the evening included a performance from The Commitments star Angeline Ball and dancing by Reel Irish Dance Entertainment. TV architect Dermot Bannon and a host of Irish celebrities were among the more than 400 guests who donned tuxedos and evening gowns to support the cause.
The Legacy
Julian Benson’s work left a lasting imprint on Irish entertainment and charity work. His top achievements include:
- Judge and choreographer on Dancing With The Stars, recognised for his skill and warmth.
- Founder of the Julian Benson Cystic Fibrosis Foundation and the creation of Tranquillity House — a home‑from‑home for sick children and their families.
- Creator and host of the annual Winter Wonderland Gala Ball, which has raised vital funds and awareness for CF since 2018.
Social Proof
Reactions to the hosts and the evening poured in on social media. O’Callaghan posted on Instagram: “Great fun was had last night cohosting the annual @jbcffoundation fundraising ball with @elainecrowleytv. Packed house, great fun, very emotional as we all remembered the incomparable Julian Benson. The wonderful news is that the first family goes into his Tranquillity House today.”
Fans and friends flooded the comments with praise. One attendee wrote, “You two were super together!” Ireland AM weatherman Deric Hartigan commented, “Gorgeous night; and have you on the radio nice & early.” Other messages reflected the emotional tone of the evening: “Maybe Julian is smiling along with you,” and “It was a wonderful evening and a privilege to contribute to Tranquillity House.”
Organisers noted the milestone with pride: “Yesterday, the first family arrived at Tranquility House, a milestone he would be so proud of. He was missed on the night and every day, but his spirit continues through the incredible work being done for families affected by Cystic Fibrosis.”
Diagnosed with cystic fibrosis at the age of two, the talented dancer and choreographer died surrounded by family and friends. Loved ones said his “strength, warmth, and sparkle remained with him until the very end.” The gala underlined how colleagues and the community are carrying Benson’s legacy forward — continuing fundraising, opening Tranquillity House to families, and keeping his mission alive.
Image Referance: https://www.thesun.ie/tv/16218345/elaine-crowley-miriam-ocallaghan-host-julian-benson-gala/