Look To The Stars News: Michael Jackson

The Jacksons To Reunite In Japan For Charity

Mon, 10 Oct 2011 19:00:00 +0000

Following the success of last week’s Michael Forever tribute concert in Wales, Michael Jackson’s family have announced plans for two very special charity concerts in Tokyo in December.

“If Michael was alive, he would definitely have done something to help the victims of the earthquake in Japan,” said Michael’s mother in London yesterday. “Michael loved children, he would have felt for those children who lost parents or homes.”

The Michael Jackson Tribute Live concerts will feature The Jacksons performing on stage, and will benefit ASHINAGA, a charity based in Tokyo that provides financial support to children who have lost either one or both of their parents, as well as to provide constant emotional care programs at Kobe Rainbow House, which was built in 1999 as the first day care center for orphans in Japan.

La Toya Jackson Joins Forever Michael Tribute Lineup

Mon, 03 Oct 2011 12:30:00 +0000

With less than a week to go until the Michael Forever Tribute in Cardiff, Wales on October 8th, Michael Jackson’s sister La Toya Jackson has announced she will be among the performers.

Having put music performances behind her for almost twenty years, she has decided there is no better time to perform from her heart.

“I have put musical performance behind me for roughly two decades, but there will never be another magical moment such as this to celebrate Michael with his fans to perpetuate the importance of his legacy,” she said. “I am honoured to share the stage with the incredible performers in this line up and am certain that nothing would make my brother smile bigger or brighter than this tribute concert. In speaking with my mother yesterday, I asked her where she thinks Michael would rather have us be, in this courtroom filled with negativity and lies or on a stage celebrating his music, his legacy and his life and she said without a second of thought, ‘Celebrating his Life with family and fans. I am looking forward to putting on a great show and making my brother proud.’”

Michael Jackson's Son Attends Charity Event

Mon, 26 Sep 2011 11:30:00 +0000

Michael Jackson’s eldest son, Prince Michael I, was guest of honor at a special charity event in Berlin on Friday.

The 14-year-old was part of the Tribute To Bambi event in the German capital, where he presented three handwritten manuscripts for a charity auction to benefit disadvantaged children.

“With everything I do, I try to build on what my father did,” he said. “I also try to help and change things – just like he did.”

Performers Announced For Michael Jackson Celebrity Charity Concert

Fri, 12 Aug 2011 15:00:00 +0000

Some of the stars set to appear at the Michael Jackson Memorial Concert in Wales in October have been announced.

Among the performers at Michael Forever, The Tribute Concert will be Christina Aguilera, Cee Lo Green, Craig David, Smokey Robinson, Leona Lewis, JLS and Alien Ant Farm.

“We’re delighted that such exciting and globally recognized acts have joined the line-up to pay tribute to a music legend…We’ll be adding more amazing headliners in the days to come,” said Chris Hunt, president of concert promoter Global Live Events

Michael Jackson's Kids Give Artworks To Children's Hospital

Wed, 10 Aug 2011 12:30:00 +0000

Michael Jackson’s children – Prince, 14, Paris, 13, and ‘Blanket’, 9 – have donated 13 pieces of artwork created by the late singer to Children’s Hospital Los Angeles.

The pictures – which include Mickey Mouse and Peter Pan – were presented to the Hospital at a special ceremony with La Toya Jackson earlier this week. Former “Entertainment Tonight” host Mary Hart, who is also a hospital trustee, arranged the donation.

Michael Jackson's Family Announces Celebrity Charity Concert

Mon, 25 Jul 2011 19:40:00 +0000

The life of Michael Jackson will be celebrated in a celebrity charity concert in Wales in October.

The show was announced at a press conference earlier today that saw Michael’s siblings Janet, La Toya, Marlon, Tito and Jackie – as well as their mother Katherine Jackson – gather at the Beverly Hills Hotel.

“We wanted to do something decent and worthy of Michael’s musical genius yet something fun and authentic that you would envision Michael attending with excitement and joy surrounded by talent that he respected and loved,” said Chris Hunt, president of Global Live Events.

Michael Jackson's Thriller Jacket Goes On Tour For Charity

Thu, 21 Jul 2011 12:30:00 +0000

Milton Verret, an Austin businessman and philanthropist, has announced that the jacket entertainer Michael Jackson wore for his landmark “Thriller” album performance in 1982 is now in Austin and will soon be employed to help raise money for children’s medical needs across the country — starting with Dell Children’s Medical Center in Austin.

Verret, who recently won an auction for the jacket with a top bid of $1.8 million, announced that, as previously arranged with the auction house, $100,000 of the winning bid will go to the Superhero Kids Fund at Dell Children’s. The fund assists children and their families who are receiving treatment at Children’s Cancer and Blood Disorders Program.

Samia Joseph of Austin, a co-founder of the Superhero Kids Fund, and hospital officials accepted the $100,000 on behalf of the children and their families.

Get Your Hands On A Photo Signed By Justin Bieber At Randy Foye Charity Gala

Mon, 04 Jul 2011 11:30:00 +0000

A charity event in New Jersey next week will give you the chance to get your hands on a picture signed by Justin Bieber, as well as items signed by Bon Jovi, Bruce Springsteen, the cast from Grey’s Anatomy, Jack Nicholson, Lance Armstrong, Michael Jackson, the cast of Twilight and many more.

The 2011 Night for Newark Gala benefiting the Randy Foye Foundation is an elegant evening of dinner, dancing, special guests and incredible auction items. The event brings together donors, family and friends to honor the achievements of the students in the organization’s Assist 4 Life program, and raises funds to further support their goals.

This year’s gala will be held at the Robert B. Meyner Reception Center in Holmdel, New Jersey on Saturday, July 9, 2011.

Janet Jackson To Host Celebrity Charity Life Ball

Mon, 04 Apr 2011 20:00:00 +0000

Janet Jackson will host this year’s amfAR Life Ball in Vienna.

Life Ball is the world’s most extravagant HIV and AIDS benefit held annually in the beautiful historical city of Vienna, Austria. Life Ball combines the great Viennese Ball tradition with glamorous, outlandish performances and inspirational speeches. Life Ball has always provided an opportunity to speak out against ignorance and prejudice and celebrate diversity. Organized by AIDS LIFE, Life Ball has raised more than $20 million during the past 18 years for HIV/AIDS projects worldwide through partnerships with amfAR, the William J. Clinton Foundation, the Elton John AIDS Foundation, and UNAIDS. Through the Life Ball, AIDS LIFE has been a major supporter of amfAR’s TREAT Asia Pediatric HIV/AIDS Initiative.

Since accepting a volunteer position with amfAR, Janet Jackson has travelled internationally on behalf of the foundation. At each of her numerous public appearances, she has worked tirelessly to heighten awareness of HIV/AIDS as a threat to social and economic stability and to underscore the urgent need for continued AIDS research.

Good Charlotte To Headline Celebrity Charity Festival For Humanity

Fri, 25 Mar 2011 14:00:00 +0000

The brand new 4-day music and art festival at Mountain Creek Resort in Vernon, New Jersey taking place over Memorial Day Weekend called the Festival for Humanity has announced Good Charlotte as one of the headliners for Saturday, May 28th!

John Popper and the Duskray Troubadours have also been added for Sunday, May 29th. Other headliners include Third Eye Blind, From Good Homes, The New Pornographers, The Misfits, Sister Hazel, Cracker, Soul Asylum, Rebbie Jackson (sister of Michael Jackson) and many more! The festival has been created and aims to benefit charities of suicide prevention, health and nutrition.

Elizabeth Taylor's Charity Legacy

Wed, 23 Mar 2011 18:55:00 +0000

Hollywood legend Elizabeth Taylor – who passed away on Wednesday at the age of 79 – will be remembered off-camera for her philanthropy, her spirit and her unceasing generosity.

The Oscar-winning actress was an activist for those with AIDS since the virus first appeared in the early 1980s, courting controversy by her support in the face of the stigma attached to AIDS at the time. She was one of the first celebrities to publicly stand up against the disease, fundraising for the first major AIDS benefit ever held – a dinner organized by AIDS Project Los Angeles.

She founded the National AIDS Research Foundation in the early 1980s, and in 1985 she helped found the American Foundation for AIDS Research – better known as amfAR. In February 2011, amfAR honored Taylor at its 25th Anniversary Gala. Although her health prevented her from attending, she sent a message via her good friend and fellow AIDS activist Elton John: “I am there in spirit and I join you in saluting my fellow honorees and all these extraordinary leaders. I am inspired by their example, exhilarated by their vision, and encouraged by their compassion and love. And I love them in return.”

Muhammad Ali Shines At Celebrity Charity Fight Night

Tue, 22 Mar 2011 14:00:00 +0000

On Saturday, March 19, stars and athletes from around the country converged on the J.W. Marriott Desert Ridge Resort & Spa in Phoenix, Arizona for Muhammad Ali’s Celebrity Fight Night XVII.

GRAMMY Award-winning leading lady of country music, Reba McEntire returned for her sixth year as emcee, and Lee Greenwood opened the evening with a touching rendition of “God Bless the U.S.A.” in which a rare Bald Eagle was released into the room to the surprise of the audience. Billy Crystal, longtime friend of Muhammad Ali, made a special introduction of The Champ who walked on stage to a standing ovation.

With Muhammad Ali on stage, Academy-Award winning actress Halle Berry was presented with the Muhammad Ali Celebrity Fight Night Entertainer Award, No. 1 ranked LPGA Champion Cristie Kerr received the Sports Achievement Award, Go Daddy CEO and Founder Bob Parsons received the Muhammad Ali Celebrity Fight Night Entrepreneur Award, and former NBA and NFL owner Red McCombs received the Muhammad Ali Celebrity Fight Night Humanitarian Award.

Annie Lennox To Be Honored With Harry Chapin Humanitarian Award

Tue, 08 Mar 2011 14:00:00 +0000

NARM, the music business association, has announced that it will honor Grammy and Oscar-winning artist, activist and campaigner, Annie Lennox, with its Harry Chapin Memorial Humanitarian Award in recognition of her outstanding work on behalf of HIV/AIDS awareness and other health, human rights and environmental causes.

The presentation will take place at the 2011 NARM Convention Awards Dinner Finale at the Hyatt Regency Century Plaza Hotel in Los Angeles on Thursday, May 12.

George Clooney And Friends Support We Want Peace Campaign

Thu, 16 Dec 2010 15:30:00 +0000

London-based former Sudanese child soldier, political advocate and hip-hop recording artist Emmanuel Jal is spearheading a political awareness campaign supported by George Clooney, Alicia Keys, Kofi Annan, Richard Branson and Peter Gabriel. The singer launched the digital download single “We Want Peace” on Monday 13th December 2010.

The song will be available to download from all leading digital download retailers or from the official website www.we-want-peace.com. Emmanuel Jal is encouraging people around the world to visit the official website, to become ‘peace soldiers’ and sign a peace awareness petition that will call for a timely, free and fair referendum in Southern Sudan and equality, freedom, and justice for all Sudanese.

“The main objective is for supporters from around the world to visit the official “We Want Peace” website and sign up to become ‘Peace Soldiers’," says Jal.

Bon Jovi Supports Children In Need Celebrity Charity Telethon

Fri, 05 Nov 2010 15:30:00 +0000

Bon Jovi have matched fan donations of US$15,000 for the BBC’s Children in Need charity.

The classic rockers played an intimate gig for 100 fans at the BBC’s legendary Maida Vale studios in West London earlier this week, ahead of the charity’s annual telethon. The audience was made up of competition winners, and the band handed over the cash in the form of a giant check.

BBC’s Children in Need spectacular live appeal telethon show returns on Friday 19 November at 7.00pm on BBC One, with a variety of entertainment acts, all doing their bit to raise money for disadvantaged children and young people right here in the UK.

LTTS Exclusive Interview: Adam Lambert

Mon, 20 Sep 2010 16:18:00 +0000

American singer/songwriter/performer, Adam Lambert has been living the dream since becoming runner-up on the eighth season of American Idol.

In November of 2009, he released his debut album, “For Your Entertainment” and followed up with a controversial performance at the 2009 American Music Awards.

In addition to a monster tour and paparazzi-laden existence, the pop-icon has been busy encouraging his fans to give back and help ‘Glam Out Classrooms’ for DonorsChoose.org, and it’s working beautifully.

Elton John Writes Public Letter To Ryan White

Sat, 24 Apr 2010 16:00:00 +0000

Elton John has written a letter – published in the Washington Post – to Ryan White, a teenage friend who died of AIDS 20 years ago.

“Twenty years ago this month, you died of AIDS,” wrote the singer. “I would gladly give my fame and fortune if only I could have one more conversation with you, the friend who changed my life as well as the lives of millions living with HIV. Instead, I have written you this letter.”

Ryan White was only 18 when he died in 1990. He attracted a frenzy of media when he was expelled from his middle school because of the disease, which he contracted from a blood treatment for his hemophilia. At a time when AIDS was poorly understood by the world, Ryan helped reduce stigmas and raise awareness.

Drew Barrymore Reunites With The Children Of The World For Charity

Thu, 25 Feb 2010 15:30:00 +0000

Twenty-five years ago, a group of children made history by getting together to record their own version of We Are The World. On Friday, the original kids – including Drew Barrymore, Fergie and Alyssa Milano – will reunite for a special DVD/Blu-Ray release of the Children Of The World Project.

The original singers will come together at the Sheraton Delfina Hotel in Santa Monica for the taping to raise money once again for charity. Where the original proceeds went to Africa famine relief, the new recording will benefit kids in Haiti.

Nominated for a Grammy Award in 1985, the Children Of The World Project was the brainchild of Sonny Melendrez, and caught the attention of Michael Jackson, who penned the original song with Lionel Richie.

Stars Revamp We Are The World For Haiti

Fri, 05 Feb 2010 11:30:00 +0000

Quincy Jones and Lionel Richie have revamped the song “We Are the World,” originally recorded 25 years ago. More than 75 big-name stars got together on February 2nd at Jim Henson Studios – where the song was originally recorded – to do it again. The song will benefit aid relief in Haiti.

The long list of celebrities includes Bono, Jason Mraz, Akon, Wyclef Jean, Usher, Pink, Céline Dion, Natalie Cole, the Jonas Brothers, Tony Bennett, Barbra Streisand, Lil Wayne and many, many more.

Lionel Richie said, “This one, the enthusiasm, I’ve never seen anything like it.”

More Celebrities Join Charity Buzz Heal Haiti Auction

Mon, 25 Jan 2010 13:00:00 +0000

More celebrities have donated items to Charity Buzz’s Heal Haiti Charity Auction.

Joining Paula Abdul – who is auctioning a signed copy of the Michael Jackson Opus – are Chris Martin and Larry King.

Chris Martin is auctioning off a signed Coldplay Platinum Viva La Vida Album and a concert-worn shirt to benefit Oxfam International, while Larry King is auctioning off 3 more pairs of his signature suspenders to benefit the same charity.

Paula Abdul Auctions Michael Jackson Opus For Charity

Wed, 20 Jan 2010 12:30:00 +0000

Paula Abdul used her appearance on Larry King’s Haiti show to announce that she is auctioning off her copy of The Michael Jackson Opus, signed by dozens of celebrities, to benefit earthquake victims through the Charitybuzz Heal Haiti Auction.

The money raised will be split between the US Fund for UNICEF and The American Red Cross.

The Official Michael Jackson OPUS is the only new publication approved and endorsed by the Estate of Michael Joseph Jackson. With over 400 pages of stunning and never-before-seen photographs plus personal, heartfelt essays written exclusively for this OPUS by those who knew Michael best and respected him most. This one-of-a-kind tribute book will help fans treasure the memory of an extraordinary person and performer.

Steven Tyler's Closet Going Under The Hammer

Thu, 12 Nov 2009 12:00:00 +0000

On November 21, 2009, The Hard Rock Cafe Times Square New York will be the venue for Julien’s Auctions’ Steven Tyler Auction benefitting MusiCares and the Musicians Assistance Program (MAP).

For the first time, the clothing and memorabilia from Aerosmith’s legendary front-man, Steven Tyler, are offered for public sale.

The proceeds from this auction will benefit The MusiCares MAP fund that assists musicians in their recovery from addiction. Steven Tyler has lent his support and offered his personal items for auction, including stage and event worn clothing by renowned designers and signed memorabilia.

LTTS Exclusive - The Caudwell Children Butterfly Ball

Tue, 03 Nov 2009 15:00:00 +0000

Look To The Stars’ UK Correspondent, Richard Barker, attended the Caudwell Children Ball last weekend and filed this exclusive report.

As a photographer and a journalist, I am fortunate enough to have many unique experiences, and I’m pleased to say that on Friday night was one of the best!

Archant London hosted a Press Ball for Caudwell Children. The Butterfly Ball at the Landmark Hotel in London’s Regent Park was attended by some truly inspiring people. Archant London’s Managing Director, Enzo Testa, welcomed the guests telling them though financial conditions were tough, he was confident that by their very presence, their generosity would produce a wealth of cash for the children, and so it proved.

LTTS Exclusive: Chefs For Heroes

Thu, 24 Sep 2009 15:00:00 +0000

I was recently honoured to be asked to attend a ‘Chefs for Heroes’ champagne and canapé reception. I felt inspired and enormously proud to be part of the project.

Paul Gayler read us a truly moving speech about his son. He felt compelled to help the British Armed Forces after his son Lee was shot in the leg whilst serving with the Territorial Army in Afghanistan. Having cooked for Royalty and pop icons such as Madonna, Mariah Carey and the late Michael Jackson, Paul’s team of the finest chefs will be serving up the most sumptuous menu (using only the finest and freshest ingredients) to London’s glitterati in a bid to raise £250,000 for Help for Heroes.

Celebrity Chefs Cook For an Army

Tue, 01 Sep 2009 12:04:00 +0000

An Army marches on its stomach they say, so it’s entirely appropriate that on the 2nd October, London’s top chefs will be cooking up a five-course feast to raise money for troops wounded in Afghanistan and Iraq.

The Chefs for Heroes gala dinner is being spearheaded by The Lanesborough’s chef de cuisine, Paul Gayler, and dished up by an ‘army’ of chefs from the City of London’s top restaurants including Andrew Bennett (Sheraton Park Lane), Gary Klaner (Landmark Hotel), Martyn Nail (Claridges), Paul Bates (Intercontinental, Hyde Park Corner), Simon Young (The Jumeirah Carlton Tower, Knightsbridge) and Matthew Marshall (Chamberlains Events).

They will be joined on the night by many of TV’s favourite chefs who will host a limited number of tables. Imagine exchanging recipes and pleasantries over dinner with Gordon Ramsay, Raymond Blanc or Heston Blumenthal – all of whom are on the guest list! Other celebrity guests include Graham Wellesley, Jeremy Clarkson and Andy McNab.