$140 million. That’s how much “Idol Gives Back” has donated to select charitable organizations since the inaugural show in season six. And American Idol didn’t even air “Idol Gives Back” in 2009. Producers deemed it inappropriate to ask the show’s nearly 30 million viewers to give to others at a time when many couldn’t support themselves. But this year, American Idol and the many charities it supports hope viewers have re-found that giving feeling. On Wednesday, during season 9’s top 7 results show, “Idol Gives Back” returns to primetime.
The Charities: In the past, the Idol Gives Back not-for-profit 501(c)(3) has split donations between African and American causes. “This year, we’re a little bit more weighted toward domestic causes,” the show’s executive producer Cecile Prot-Coutaz tells AmericanIdol.com. Children’s Health Fund, Feeding America, Malaria No More, Save the Children’s US Programs and the United Nations Foundation will all benefit from the show, which airs tonight on FOX between 8-10 p.m. Corporate sponsors Ford Motor Company, Coca-Cola, AT&T, ExxonMobil and News Corp will all make significant contributions. Bill and Melinda Gates, who have supported the Idol Gives Back Foundation since its launch in 2007, are rumored to have chipped in. Show creator Simon Fuller tells the AP that the world’s most philanthropic couple has “done something very special, quite incredible, this year.” We’re guessing it’s not free bagels for all the contestants. Tune in to find out.
The Performers: “Idol Gives Back” is no typical American Idol episode. It’s a multi-location, live music extravaganza. Elton John, Alicia Keys, Carrie Underwood, The Black Eyed Peas, Annie Lennox and Jeff Beck are all scheduled to perform during the event. Ryan Seacrest hosts from the Idol stage in Los Angeles while Queen Latifah emcees from the Pasadena Civic Auditorium. And Justin Bieber is scheduled to appear in a previously recorded performance. “Idol Gives Back” 2010 might just upstage its 2008 predecessor when Snoop Dogg and The Gap Band’s Charlie Wilson shared the stage, though it’ll be tough.
What You Can Do: American Idol makes it easy to make a difference. Text “IDOL” to 20222 to donate $10 to the the Idol Gives Back Foundation’s beneficiaries. Call 1-877-IDOL-AID to donate more (or less) or donate online. Idol Gives Back even lets you donate to one of several fundraising teams that have been organized through the American Idol website. Simply voting for your favorite Idol contestant, as you may have done Tuesday, doesn’t put a penny in the foundation’s coffers. You’ll have to get proactive Wednesday night if you want to make a difference.
Photo via AmericanIdol.com