Idol Gives Back raises $45 million

MANILA, Philippines - The Idol Gives Back fundraising effort which culminated with a two-hour television event has raised almost $45-M to benefit various US and international charities including the Children’s Health Fund, Feeding America, Malaria No More, Save the Children’s US Programs and the United Nations Foundation. 

This year, Idol Gives Back was broadcast live from the American Idol stage and The Pasadena Civic Auditorium, where Queen Latifah emceed the evening and some of music’s biggest stars, including Sir Elton John, Alicia Keys, Carrie Underwood, The Black Eyed Peas, Annie Lennox, Jeff Beck, Joss Stone, Mary J. Blige and the All-Star Band, performed. The evening also featured special appearances by President Barack Obama and First Lady Michelle Obama, Victoria Beckham, Morgan Freeman, Wanda Sykes, George Lopez, David Cook, Russell Brand, Jonah Hill, Bill and Melinda Gates.

 “Once again, I am overwhelmed by the generosity of the American Idol viewers, our sponsors and our special benefactors. I am thankful to all of the celebrity guests and performers who appeared Wednesday night to support Idol Gives Back,” said Simon Fuller, AI creator.

Catch the Philippine broadcast of American Idol live at 6 p.m. with primetime encore at 8 p.m and 11 p.m. on Star World.