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Many of the top comedians in show business are doing their part in providing much-needed help in response to the coronavirus pandemic, as they gather for the upcoming Feeding America Comedy Festival.
Oorganized by Byron Allen, the comedian-turned-entrepreneur and CEO of Allen Media Group, the festival is raising money for Feeding America, a nationwide network of 200 food banks. Headlining the May 9 livestream event are Eddie Murphy, Adam Sandler, Chris Rock, Billy Crystal and Tiffany Haddish.
Other confirmed participants of the star-studded lineup include Kevin Hart, Margaret Cho, Kenan Thompson, Marc Maron, Taraji P. Henson, Marlon Wayans, Howie Mandel, Brad Garrett, Louie Anderson, Jon Lovitz, Caroline Rhea, Billy Gardell, Tim Meadows, Jamie Kennedy, Bill Engvall and Sheryl Underwood, along with Allen. Segments pre-recorded in the comics' respective homes will play during the three-hour benefit.
"In partnership with Feeding America, my comedian friends and all of us at Allen Media Group are pleased to announce this global live-streaming comedy event on May 9th," Allen said in a statement. "Laughter is often the best medicine, and we are extremely motivated to bring attention to issues of food insecurity, and to assist in providing meals to families across the country who are financially impacted by the COVID-19 pandemic."
There are a few ways that fans can watch the benefit, which is co-produced by Funny or Die and takes place on Saturday, May 9 from 8 PM to 11 PM EST. The comedy event won't be available on any major networks or streaming services. The broadcast will air on Allen Media Group TV networks Comedy.tv, along with the Weather Channel. People can also tune in on the free Local Now streaming app.
Viewers will be encouraged to donate to Feeding America. The hunger relief organization is working with food banks to provide drive-thru pantries, emergency food boxes, and long-term support during the coronavirus pandemic.
"The coronavirus pandemic and the economic downturn it has created is shining a light on the fragile nature of people's household budgets," Feeding America CEO Claire Babineaux-Fontenot said in a statement. "Millions more of our neighbors are turning to food banks for help and we cannot thank Byron Allen and Allen Media Group enough for their support to raise funds and awareness of our work."
Allen's event isn't the only way comedy is assisting Feeding America. The Park & Recreation cast is getting together for a reunion on April 30 to benefit the food bank.
