United Way Benefit for Hurricane Relief: Release date, Performances, Special Appearances, & Everything we know

Exciting news has emerged as United Way Worldwide teams up with Paramount Global for the United Way Benefit for Hurricane Relief, a compelling one-hour special aimed at supporting victims of Hurricanes Helene and Milton. 

Set to air soon, this heartfelt initiative is designed to raise critically needed funds for recovery efforts following the catastrophic damage that these hurricanes inflicted, estimated at a staggering $50 billion.

Stars including Billy Bob Thornton, Tyler Hubbard, and Cedric The Entertainer will lend their support, joining a lineup of celebrities who have made substantial contributions to disaster relief efforts in the wake of these hurricanes. 

In this article, we'll delve into the captivating details surrounding the United Way Benefit for Hurricane Relief, exploring its star-studded lineup and exclusive behind-the-scenes insights.

Keep an eye out for thrilling updates as we reveal new information about this must-see event that is sure to inspire and uplift. Stay tuned for all the latest developments!

Release date & Where to Watch

United Way Benefit for Hurricane Relief is set to air on Saturday, Nov. 2, 2024, from 8-9 pm ET on CBS and CMT. The special, recorded in Nashville on October 27-28, will also be available for live streaming on Paramount+ with Showtime. Proceeds from this event will aid hurricane relief and support long-term recovery efforts for individuals and families across the southeastern United States.

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Plot

The one-hour special United Way Benefit for Hurricane Relief will feature a star-studded lineup from the music and entertainment industry, uniting to support communities impacted by Hurricanes Helene and Milton, which caused approximately $50 billion in damages. Taped on October 27-28 in Nashville, the event will channel proceeds towards immediate relief and long-term recovery efforts for families across the southeastern US.

Audiences can expect captivating performances from artists like Brittney Spencer, Carly Pearce, Chris Janson, Clay Aiken, Jonathan McReynolds, and Tyler Hubbard. Special appearances will include messages from the Backstreet Boys, Billy Bob Thornton, Blake Shelton, Cedric The Entertainer, and more.

Angela F. Williams, president and CEO of United Way Worldwide, emphasized the organization's role in mobilizing community support during crises, stating, “United Way Benefit for Hurricane Relief is an opportunity to unite people to help the individuals and families impacted by the devastating hurricanes.” Over the past four years, United Way has responded to over 200 disasters globally, mobilizing more than $219 million to assist local needs.

The benefit seeks to address the urgent financial needs arising from the storms that devastated the Southeast in September and October, resulting in significant loss of life and widespread destruction. As Milton struck Florida in early October, Helene wreaked havoc in North Carolina, leading to catastrophic flooding after its late September landfall.

Performances & Special Appearances

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• Backstreet Boys

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• Billy Bob Thornton
• Billy Burke
• Blake Shelton
• Brittney Spencer
• Carly Pearce
• Cedric The Entertainer
• Chris Janson
• Clay Aiken
• Cody Alan
• Jackson Dean
• JB SMOOVE

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• Jonathan McReynolds
• Kelsea Ballerini
• Max Thieriot
• Nate Burleson
• Stephen Colbert
• Taye Diggs
• Tyler Hubbard
• Zac Brown Band 

Trailer

There’s no trailer available yet, but we’ll update this space as soon as one is released.

Behind the Scenes

The United Way Benefit for Hurricane Relief was developed by Byron V. Garrett, chief revenue officer at United Way Worldwide, and Melissa C. Potter, executive director of Content for Change at Paramount Global. Produced for CBS and CMT, the special features the combined efforts of several production companies, including Black & Bespoke (executive producer Myiea Coy), 5X Media (executive producers Gil Goldschein and Maria Pepin), Digital Cinema Collective (executive producer Aaron Cooke), and Berman Productions (executive producer Al Berman).

Byron V. Garrett shared that United Way has a longstanding commitment to aiding communities during crises, utilizing its deep local connections to direct resources where they’re most needed. 

Melissa C. Potter expressed pride in Paramount Global’s collaboration with United Way, aiming to support those affected by Hurricanes Helene and Milton. She highlighted United Way's ability to bring together local leaders and community partners to provide critical assistance, with the funds from this benefit focused on helping communities rebuild and recover.