Roger Waters to appear in Tsunami appeal TV show?
Written by Matt   
Monday, 10 January 2005

It is reported that former Pink Floyd frontman Roger Waters is to participate in a star-studded tsunami benefit show on US network NBC Universal, on Saturday January 15th at 8pm EST, called "Tsunami Aid: A Concert of Hope".

NBC Universal has teamed up with the American Red Cross for the telethon, which will encourage viewers to donate financial aid to the millions affected by the devastating natural disaster which occurred in Southern Asia on December 26th. Besides NBC and Pax, the special will also air on the USA Network, Sci-Fi Channel, Bravo, Trio, MSNBC, CNBC, and Telemundo.

Stars lined up for the show, apart from Waters, include Eric Clapton, Brian Wilson, Stevie Wonder, Diana Ross, Madonna, Norah Jones, Usher, Sarah McLachlan, Sheryl Crow, Mary J. Blige, Lenny Kravitz, John Mayer, Kenny Chesney, India.Arie, Tom Jones, Gloria Estefan, Halle Berry, Kevin Spacey, George Clooney, Danny DeVito, Michael Douglas and Catherine Zeta-Jones, Rhea Pearlman, Tim Robbins, Bruce Willis, Uma Thurman, Matt Damon, and Maroon 5. The show is scheduled to last an hour - which should be a squeeze to get all these guests on along with the fund-raising information. It is set to air live on the East Coast and via a tape delay in the West. Phone lines will remain open throughout the evening for donations, NBC Universal said.

To date, the tsunami, triggered by the world’s most powerful earthquake in 40 years, is estimated to have killed more than 150,000 people in Asia and Africa, and taken people's homes and possessions, leaving millions with nothing, through no fault of their own. It is estimated that 100,000 children have been orphaned.

With specific regard to Roger Waters' involvement in the show, we contacted Roger's management office earlier today to get clarification that (a) he IS taking part, and (b) what his involvement will be. We are currently waiting for them to get back to us with this information, and will pass on more details as we get them.

UPDATE:
We now understand that the show has been extended to two hours - this should give more time for the assembled stars. We're still waiting for confirmation on Roger's involvement with the show and hope to have more information for you in the next couple of days.