It's high time American Idol gave something back!
Season after season, this more-addictive-than-Cheetos show has taken up two evenings of our week and consistently blasphemed our musical taste. We’ve sacrificed a lot for you, Idol - so what are you giving back this year?
Being covert Idol fans ourselves, we’re only poking fun at our demands from the show. We’re actually happy to report on the annual charitable event “Idol Gives Back,” which is possibly the most credible and un-self serving thing the hit series does in a season. This year’s event was taped last Sunday night at the Kodak Theatre, but isn’t scheduled to air until 7:30 pm on Wednesday, on FOX – but we’ve got a sneak peek at what you can expect from the gala.
On the Docket
In case you don’t get enough of him on the actual show, Idol host Ryan Seacrest has also taken the mic to host this star-studded event, which this year is raising funds for several notable charities, including the Global Fund, Malaria No More and the Children’s Health Fund.
Standout performances in the show are said to include a rambunctious (and gymnastic!) duet by Fergie and Heart on Heart’s song “Barracuda,” Mariah Carey performing her new single “Touch My Body,” a George Michael cover from former Idol and our current love Carrie Underwood, and of course a collaboration piece by Idol’s current season of contestants.
Famous Faces
There was also no shortage of celebrity appearances for the event, with notable names like Jim Carrey, Reese Witherspoon and Ellen Degeneres all coming out to show their support. Brad Pitt was also on hand as the event was raising funds for his new organization Make It Right, which was established to help post-Katrina New Orleans get back on its feet.
“Tonight isn’t just about raising money,” Pitt explained on behalf of his charity. “Sometimes, to help people, we’ve got to travel outside of our comfort zone to really understand another situation.”
That’s a quick look at what you can expect this year, but be sure to tune in and even give a little if you can. Last year the show raised $76 million for its chosen charities, and this year it’s shooting to break $100 million.
It just goes to show that while Idol may not always be big on talent, they sure are big on heart!