Via Variety:
The smash talent competish is prepping a second edition of its “Idol Gives Back” fund-raiser, which will air April 9 at 8 p.m.
Two-hour event will include performances and appearances by stars and artists yet to be named.
Last year’s “Idol Gives Back” raised $75 million for charities in the U.S. and Africa. Funds went to domestic medical care, groceries and literacy programs for underprivileged children; the Africa funds went to orgs that handle health and education programs.
Hmmm. It’s a great idea, I mean, who can knock charity? But I think the show should be a stand-alone special, rather than integrated into the competition. Last year, it was a pretty awkward alternating between dramatic video of starving kids and doing the typical business of an American Idol elimination show. In the end, no one was eliminated, and it was just dumb.
April 9th is a Wednesday. They should just dispense with the eliminations all together upfront–announce it at the top of the show–or schedule a separate elimination show for Thursday.
In this interview with Star94 in Atlanta, GA, Elliott Yamin mentions that he might be going to Africa in February to film a segment for the special.
ETA: Idol Gives Back occurred during Top 6 last year. This year, it’s scheduled during Top 8 week. The earlier date may help keep the event from completely overwhelming the competition.
