Shaq goes big with headliners for ‘The Event’ charity show
Shaquille O’Neal always plays it big, and his next gala is serving extra-large star power.
O’Neal has signed two EGOT (Emmy, Grammy, Oscar and Tony) winners for “The Event,” set for Oct. 7 at MGM Grand Garden. John Legend and Jennifer Hudson lead the all-star cast for the third-annual charity show benefiting The Shaquille O’Neal Foundation.
“We raised the bar last year, and the third Event promises to do the same,” O’Neal said in a statement. “I’m so grateful to our entertainers who are once again donating their time. I know they will create a night of incredible music and comedy in a true testament to the power of unity to make a difference in kids’ lives.”
Comic actor Joel McHale is host, joined by frequent Vegas headliner and “Everybody Loves Raymond” star Ray Romano; Anderson .Paak, in his DJ Pee Wee persona; and country-pop duo Dan + Shay on the bill. Grammy- and Emmy-award winner Adam Blackstone is back for his third run as music director.
Tickets to the public concert are available at AXS.com. Prices range from $50-$250. Additional details about the show and ticket or table options are at shaqfoundation.org.
“The Event” is the primary fundraiser for the O’Neal Foundation, which supports under-served youth through Boys & Girls Clubs and Communities In Schools. In just two shows, “The Event” has raised more than $6 million.
O’Neal splits his time living between Las Vegas and his original hometown of Atlanta. The 7-foot-1 inch ex-NBA superstar and current cable analyst has proven an enthusiastic host.
Last year, Shaq lumbered onstage with for an unbilled duet with Adam Levine of Maroon 5 on “This Love.” In 2021’s inaugural event, the four-time NBA champ joined pop star Kelly Clarkson for “Since You’ve Been Gone.” He called out, “That is my jam!” and it was also a slam dunk.
John Katsilometes’ column runs daily in the A section. His “PodKats!” podcast can be found at reviewjournal.com/podcasts. Contact him at jkatsilometes@reviewjournal.com. Follow @johnnykats on Twitter, @JohnnyKats1 on Instagram.