Black-ish executive producer and star Anthony Anderson will return to host UNCF An Evening of Stars® for the third consecutive year. K. Michelle, Yolanda Adams, Estelle and Jussie Smollett will perform. Estelle and Smollett will perform the special duet version of her single “Conqueror,” as seen on the hit FOX series Empire. UNCF An Evening of Stars®, which has been the hallmark of African American superstars supporting minority education for 36 years, will tape in Atlanta, Georgia at the Atlanta Civic Center on April 12, 2015 and air nationally on BET, Sunday, April 26, 2015 at 10p/9c. Additional performers and presenters will be announced shortly.
Tickets to the show’s taping can be purchased at www.UNCF.org/AEOStickets.
“As it always has, UNCF is answering the call to make a difference in the lives of minority youth and the community at large. In the spirit of ‘Black Lives Matter,’ UNCF is redoubling its efforts and joining with other influential voices to ensure ‘Black Lives Matter.’ Through partnerships with Target, Usher’s New Look Foundation and other important partner foundations, we are making a difference,” said UNCF President and CEO Dr. Michael L. Lomax. “I want to personally thank Anthony for his continued support and shepherding of UNCF An Evening of Stars®. He brings comedy, experience, heart and resources to this important endeavor and inspires us all to invest in better futures for young people across the country.”
“Atlanta is proud to be the home of UNCF An Evening of Stars®,” said Mayor Kasim Reed, City of Atlanta. “Through the work of UNCF and countless supporters, thousands of our young people are receiving educational opportunities and resources to complete their education and continue along the road to achieving their dreams. I applaud this year’s performers and sponsors for their unwavering commitment to invest in future generations by ensuring they have access to a high-quality education.”
This year’s show is made possible by national sponsors McDonald’s and Wells Fargo. Target is an official sponsor and also serves as a “Rising Stars” scholarship sponsor. Buick is a major sponsor. The City of Atlanta, iHeartMedia and BET Networks serve as the city and media partners, respectively. The Walton Family Foundation is a philanthropic partner. UNCF An Evening of Stars® will also air in syndication on April 25 and 26 (check local listings for dates and times).
Jesse Collins, CEO of Jesse Collins Entertainment, returns to produce UNCF An Evening of Stars for the third year. Collins has played an integral role in producing some of television’s most memorable performances in the music entertainment arena. Formerly executive producer and executive vice president of Cossette Productions, he has produced award-winning television programming including the GRAMMY® Awards, the BET Awards, BET Honors and the BET Hip Hop Awards. He has worked with superstar talent including Beyoncé, Will Smith, Jamie Foxx, Jay Z, Rihanna, Kanye West, Mary J. Blige and Kid Rock. Collins is also executive producer of the BET hit series The Real Husbands of Hollywood starring Kevin Hart, which won an NAACP Image Award® for Outstanding Comedy Series.
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