This Morning’s Phillip Schofield and Josie Gibson have announced an upcoming live concert with a number of “the world’s biggest music stars” will take place later this month to fundraise for the ongoing humanitarian crisis in Ukraine.
The presenters made the announcement during Wednesday’s instalment of the ITV daytime show, adding that the fundraiser concert will be a two-hour event on Tuesday, March 29.
Josie said: “But just who is going to appear will be announced in the next few days. If you haven’t donated already to the Ukraine appeal, this will be your chance to pledge and help the ongoing relief efforts helping millions affected by the war.”
Phillip added: “Very happy to announce that. Sounds amazing.”
ITV announced that the fundraising concert is in collaboration with STV, the Disasters Emergency Committee and media group Global.
The broadcast will combine music performances with short films recognising the ongoing relief efforts and the plight faced by people affected by the conflict in Ukraine, ITV said.
Viewers will be able to donate money to the cause throughout the evening and all sponsorship and advertising revenue generated from the broadcast of the event - which is expected to raise over £3 million according to ITV - will also be donated to the DEC appeal.
Katie Rawcliffe, Head of Entertainment Commissioning at ITV, said: “Music is a very powerful tool when it comes to showing support and solidarity, and at ITV we are proud and privileged to be working with Livewire Pictures, Global, M&S and the DEC on such an important and necessary fundraising event.”
Bobby Hain, Managing Director of Broadcast at STV, said: “We've seen time and time again that the generosity of STV viewers knows no bounds. As the crisis in Ukraine continues to intensify at an alarming rate, this event will be an opportunity for our audiences to come together through the power of music, show our whole-hearted support for Ukraine, and help make a difference to those affected through the work of DEC charities.”
Kelly Williams and Simon Daglish, Managing Director and Deputy Managing Director, ITV Commercial, said: “As we’ve witnessed the horrific events unfolding before our eyes we want to work with brands to show our industry's support and raise as much money as possible for the millions of people affected by this crisis. The industry has a generous spirit at its heart and now more than ever it is the time to come together and make a difference.”
Saleh Saeed, chief executive of the DEC, said: “It is heart-breaking to see the deepening crisis unfolding in Ukraine as more refugees cross the borders each day with nothing more than what they can carry. The situation for those inside the country is becoming increasingly precarious.
“But there is something we can all do to bring hope. Funds raised by this concert will make a real difference to those affected by the conflict, sending a strong message of love and enabling DEC charities to help now with urgent aid as well as helping to rebuild lives in the months and years ahead."
James Rea, Global’s Director of Broadcasting & Content said: “This important fundraising event will raise vital funds for DEC and Global is proud to be partnering with ITV, Livewire and DEC as we all try and do what we can for the people of Ukraine.”
A line-up of presenters and artists, to be announced over the coming days, will take part in the live show, which will be broadcast across ITV, STV, ITV Hub and STV Player.
