Musicians and stars "Stand Up To Cancer"
Dozens of celebrities did more than just stand up to cancer Friday night, they linked up across more than 30 broadcast and cable television networks.
"Everyone knows someone who's been affected by cancer," said Gwyneth Paltrow
For the fourth time in six years, the non-profit charity "Stand Up To Cancer" held its televised fundraiser to collect money for cancer research.
"Science, for lack of a better word is, well it's cool," Halle Berry said.
Like in previous years, the show was broadcast live without commercials on all four networks and 28 cable channels. But for the first time, it also streamed live on Yahoo and Hulu.
Grammy winners Lupe Fiasco, Jennifer Hudson and Common performed their new track "Remission" on the telecast for the first time. The song, a remix of Fiasco's "Mission," is intended to empower those facing cancer, celebrate survivors and those who have died from cancer-related illnesses.
"Remission" will be available from digital retailers immediately after the telecast performance, with artist, producer and record label royalties being donated to Stand Up To Cancer
Other musical performers included The Who, Ariana Grande and Dave Matthews Band.
The amount of money raised wasn't immediately released, but organizers said they hoped to top the $100 million mark for the first time this year. The previous three events collectively brought in $261 million for cancer research.
Katie Couric helped launch the charity in 2008. Last night she hosted an on-stage "digital lounge," replacing the typical phone bank at most telethons. In additional to phone calls, celebrities mingled with donors via social media and other internet platforms.
"We can be more interactive than ever," Couric said.
Despite the serious subject matter, Will Ferrell brought comic relief in the guise of his "Anchorman" character Ron Burgundy.
"I love Stand Up to Cancer," Ferrell said. "But we shouldn't stop there? As a society we need to stand up to Libras and Pisces and Tauruses and Capricorns"
In the end, actress and cancer survivor Sophia Vergara used her cell phone to demonstrate the widespread impact of the disease.
"If you have ever taken care of someone with cancer, light it up and raise it high with me," she said.