More Stars Align for Idol Special

Celine Dion, Forest Whitaker, Kiefer Sutherland, Vanessa Hudgens, Robin Williams set for "Idol Gives Back

By Gina Serpe Mar 27, 2008 2:55 PMTags

Idol hands-on-deck are Fox's playthings.

The network has unveiled a second impressive batch of stars who have signed on to appear in American Idol's second annual "Idol Gives Back" charity special next month, which will once again raise funds for U.S. and international causes.

Forest Whitaker, who appeared last year as well, will be back to make a plea for viewer donations, to be joined by Jennifer Connolly, Amy Adams and the network's own Kiefer Sutherland.

Robin Williams and Billy Crystal will also make guest spots on the one-night, two-hour special, along with fellow funnyman Dane Cook.

As Simon Cowell is so keen to remind contestants, American Idol is, above all else, a singing competition, and as such some impressive musically inclined stars have also joined the guest spot ranks. Friend of the show Celine Dion will appear, as will High School Musical stars Vanessa Hudgens and Ashley Tisdale.

Idol alums Eliott Yamin and Fantasia have also signed on.

Earlier this month, Fox rolled out the guest star big guns, unveiling the first batch of A-list supporters to lend their celebrity to the worthy episode. Brad Pitt, Bono, Reese Witherspoon, Miley Cyrus, Mariah Carey, Annie Lennox, Snoop Dogg, Fergie, John Legend, Carrie Underwood and Chris Daughtry were revealed as participants.

Last year's inaugural event raised more than $76 million for a variety of charities at home and abroad, all of which benefit underprivileged and poverty-stricken children.

"Idol Gives Back" airs April 9.