My idol on “Idol”?
Great. Bono’s name is mentioned, so now I have to admit to the world, or at least the world of @U2 readers, that I watch “American Idol.” (It’s a guilty pleasure; I can’t help it!)
On Thursday’s episode, host Ryan Seacrest announced the show’s “Idol Gives Back” charity event April 24-25. According to the show’s Web site:
“Fox, American Idol and the Charity Projects Entertainment Fund (CPEF is a charitable U.S. organization) have partnered on an historic television event – Idol Gives Back – a two-night special to help raise awareness and funds for children and young people in need in America and Africa.”
The first night of the special will be the top six finalists competing, with the show’s sponsors making donations for every vote viewers cast. The second night, when results are announced, will also feature celebrities and give viewers a chance to donate by vote or Internet.
Seacrest said on Thursday’s show, “Bono has said we’ll see worlds collide when Africa appears on America’s most-watched television show. He’s also called it ‘pop history.’”
Seacrest wasn’t clear about what Bono’s role would be, but Reuters reported that he is expected to sing, along with Gwen Stefani and Pink, among other stars. Reuters also quotes Bono as saying, “I wouldn’t underestimate the reach of (’Idol’) or the impact its audience can have.”
Among the charities listed on Idol’s Web site as beneficiaries are Save the Children, The Global Fund and UNICEF. The One Campaign has a link under a heading to “Learn more.”
Even though I’m an Idol watcher, I’m not sure how I feel about my favorite singer making an appearance on the show. But hey, anything for the cause, right? (Yes, I know: It’s not a cause; it’s an emergency.)
be54 said,
March 9, 2007 @ 3:57 pm
Oh thank god! I watch Idol too - I find it so amusing! I had a little trouble thinking about Bono being on the show myself. But honestly, why not if the end result brings about greater awareness for the poor of this world and results in donations. Idol has a massive following! Just think about all the people that can be reached just by them watching and voting! I don’t vote but I may do so if Idol is going to make a donation.
I am a bit tired and angry at times of late with regard to the negative reaction that Bono and others like him seem to receive when they put themselves behind things like this. What difference does it make that someone like Bono is on Idol or not? It should be about those who suffer from extreme poverty and are sick and dying from preventable diseases. Bono has said that he would meet with the devil if it would make a difference to better this situation. I say go for it and I will be there to back him up.
Having Bono on Idol would be the best thing to ever happen on that show. They could use some good rock roll!