Some of the biggest names in the entertainment industry gathered for a benefit show, called the "Hand-in-Hand" telethon, that aimed at raising funds to aid Hurricane victims. On Tuesday, the live broadcast kicked off with performances from Stevie Wonder, Tori Kelly, Luis Fonsi, Justin Bieber, Usher, Blake Shelton among others.
Celebrities hold charity event for hurricane victims
According to E! News, the relief telethon was aired simultaneously in Nashville, Los Angeles, New York, and Texas. They noted that that the "Hand-in-Hand" telethon raised more than 14 million dollars on its first day, which will be used to provide help to people affected by the recent calamities.
Apple reportedly gave five million dollars and promised to double these figures with their next donation. Meanwhile, Justin Bieber expressed his gratitude at being able to be a part of the charity event. He also asked his fans to get involved and donate whatever they can to people in dire need.
"We don’t want you guys to just watch, we want you guys to be a part of this and donate, whatever you can, it doesn’t have to be much — just whatever you can possibly give," he said.
The Canadian singer delivered this message before he introduced a trio of religious leaders who led the "Hand-in-Hand" prayer for the hurricane victims. The prayer was followed by a performance from Tori Kelly and Luis Fonsi who sang their bilingual rendition of "Hallelujah."
Singers, actors raise millions on first day of telethon
Beyoncé, who could not make it to the "Hand-in-Hand" telethon, dedicated a video message where she emphasized the importance of unity in times of disaster.
She added that "natural disasters don't discriminate" regardless of one's race, religion or status.
The Queen B encouraged the viewers to be "in this together" without judging a person for his or her background in life. Selena Gomez also delivered a short yet inspiring message to millions of people watching the charity event and asked them to remain steadfast in times of calamities and unfortunate events.
The first day of the "Hand-in-Hand" telethon was also attended by Leonardo DiCaprio, Jamie Foxx, Catherine Zeta-Jones, Nicki Minaj, Faith Hill and husband Tim McGraw, Sean "Diddy" Combs, Kerry Washington, Karlie Kloss, Jourdan Dunn, Barbara Streisand, Julianne Moore, Hilary Duff, Gwen Stefani, Reese Witherspoon, George Clooney and a lot more.
