Coronavirus: Rosie O'Donnell to reboot her talk show for star-studded one-night special online fundraiser
As the coronavirus pandemic keeps getting out of control with people succumbing to the virus and more and more people testing positive across the globe, Rosie O'Donnell is doing her bit to help in this time of crisis. 'The Rosie O'Donnell Show' will return for a one-night special to raise money for the cause.
This Sunday (March 22), Rosie O'Donnell and actor and producer Erich Bergen will be bringing back the Emmy-winning show as a live, one-night-only streaming fundraiser for The Actors Funds.
Before you get concerned for the safety of your favorite stars participating in the fundraiser, we must clarify that the participating stars Matthew Broderick, Kristin Chenoweth, Darren Criss, Gloria Estefan, Billy Porter and Morgan Freeman among many others will be signing in from their homes.
"Everybody who knows me knows that Broadway has been one of the brightest lights in my life since the time I was a little girl," a statement from O’Donnell said. "It has also been the lifeblood of New York City for generation after generation. After all, Broadway has given to the world, now — in this time of tremendous need — it’s our turn to give something back. There is no better way to support this community than via The Actors Fund. And, with a line-up like this, I dare you not to tune in."
Sarah Jessica Parker, Jesse Tyler Ferguson, David Foster, Neil Patrick Harris, Barry Manilow, Audra McDonald, Katharine McPhee, Idina Menzel, Ben Platt, Miranda Sings, Jordin Sparks, Ben Vereen, Skylar Astin, Beth Behr, Tituss Burgess and Kristin Chenoweth will also be joining in from their homes as they continue self-isolating.
With the virus continuing to spread throughout the country, social distancing regulations have been implemented by governments to slow the spread of the disease. Bergen added that the live streaming of the show will not only raise money but also provide entertainment to millions of viewers.
"This is the ultimate win-win proposition. The Actors Fund needs our support, and we’re all desperate for some fabulous entertainment we can enjoy from the safety of our own homes. I’m so grateful to Rosie, and to this truly jaw-dropping array of talent that have agreed to participate," she added.
"Because social distancing is so important right now, this amazing benefit is an incredible show of support to lift spirits, bring us all together virtually and help The Actors Fund help those in need," The Actors Fund chairman Brian Stokes Mitchell said. "Now more than ever, people in our community are depending on The Fund’s vital services."
'The Rosie O'Donnell Show' will stream live on Sunday, March 22, at 7pm ET and 4pm PT on Broadway.com. It will also be available on Broadway.com's YouTube channel.
