When we talk about Hollywood, our minds usually turn to award-winning films, red carpet glamour, and the sometimes-scandalous tabloid stories. Yet, there is another side to Tinseltown, one that uses fame and fortune for the greater good. Here, we peer beyond the silver screen to highlight some of Hollywood’s most impactful celebrity philanthropy acts.
First on the list is the legendary George Clooney, scribed onto the pages of philanthropy almost as often as he is on those of acting. Along with fellow humanitarian Don Cheadle, he cofounded ‘Not On Our Watch,’ an initiative aimed at preventing mass atrocities. The organization has helped raise millions of dollars for humanitarian aid in Sudan, Zimbabwe, and Burma. Clooney’s unfettered commitment has also seen him arrested while protesting outside the Sudanese embassy, making him a true shining star of Hollywood philanthropy.
On the other end of the spectrum, we find Angelina Jolie, whose philanthropic portfolio is as diverse as her film roles. A dedicated activist, Jolie focuses on child immigration and education and women’s rights globally. Her efforts led to her appointment as a UNHCR Goodwill Ambassador, uplifting millions and highlighting their issues on a global platform.
The couple Nick Cannon and Mariah Carey, synonymous with both their musical prowess and charitable activities, launched a charity auction for Project Angel Food. Their initiative delivered meals to the homes of people affected by life-threatening illnesses, arranging more than 11,000 meals.
During the pandemic, the world saw powerhouse couple Blake Lively and Ryan Reynolds shine through their philanthropic acts, donating $1 million to Feeding America and Food Banks Canada. They have since pledged more donations to hospitals in New York, contributing to the global fight against COVID-19.
Beloved talk show host Ellen DeGeneres, with her eponymous foundation, also made considerable strides in the world of philanthropy. Through the Ellen Fund, DeGeneres is hard at work protecting and studying endangered species, particularly gorillas, underlining the intersection of celebrity and environmental activism.
Then we have Rihanna’s ‘Clara Lionel Foundation.’ Named after her grandparents, the charity aims to support and fund groundbreaking education and emergency response programs around the world. The foundation has propelled millions of dollars into disaster relief, education programs, and research for cancer and HIV/AIDS, illuminating Rihanna as a truly inspiring philanthropic figure.
Interestingly, some celebrities take their philanthropic efforts in more creative directions, like Matthew McConaughey, who turned his love for travelling into a superlative philanthropic act. He established the ‘Just Keep Livin’ Foundation, intended to empower high school students by providing them with the tools to lead active lives and make healthy choices for a better future.
Hollywood’s gleam is not merely about box office hits. The celebrities who use their platforms to incite positive change are the real shining stars. These philanthropic acts remind us of the power of fame when used as a force for good. Through their tireless efforts and unwavering dedication, these celebrities showcase that the heart of Hollywood beats for more than just glamour and showbiz – it beats for humanity.