‘American Idol’ charity special pulls in $60 million-plus to aid poor in Africa, America

LOS ANGELES – An “American Idol” charity special filled with wrenching pictures of impoverished children and celebrity appeals raised more than $60 million, Fox said Thursday.
The money from “Idol Gives Back,” a two-night special that was combined with the regular talent contest, will go to organizations funding relief programs for America and Africa, the network said. Donations came from viewers and corporations.
A total of $5 million was pledged by Fox parent company News Corp., which gave 10 cents for each of the first 50 million votes received for contestants on Tuesday’s show. More than 70 million votes were cast, a record for the show, Fox said.
Pledges were still coming in and an updated total was to be announced on next Tuesday’s show, Fox said.
In the spirit of the evening, “American Idol” decided not to bounce a contestant as usual Wednesday meaning two singers will be going home next week.
Performers on Wednesday’s two-hour special included Earth, Wind & Fire, Kelly Clarkson and Josh Groban with the African Children’s Choir Ben Stiller, Madonna and other celebrities encouraged viewers to donate.
Ellen DeGeneres, co-host with Ryan Seacrest of Wednesday’s show, said she was making a personal donation of $100,000.