Seinfeld/Springsteen Concert Raises Nearly $1.7 Million for Autism Speaks Click here for a photo gallery from the event
Comedian Jerry Seinfeld and The Boss himself, Bruce Springsteen headlined a sold-out concert which raised nearly $1.7 million in support of Autism Speaks' research, awareness and family services initiatives. The Concert for Autism Speaks, held November 17 at Carnegie Hall in New York City, featured an acoustical set by Springsteen that brought the house down. Emotions ran high when the Boss dedicated “If I Should Fall Behind” to all the parents of children with autism in the audience.
From left: David Gregory, Bruce Springsteen, Suzanne Wright, Jerry Seinfeld, Bob Wright
It was definitely a night to remember for Seinfeld enthusiasts. The observational comedian didn't miss a trick with his uncanny and timely references. He opened the evening congratulating the crowd on being there – “You should all be very proud of yourself – even I couldn't get tickets to this!”
The night was emceed by NBC's Meet the Press moderator David Gregory, who surprised the Carnegie audience by opening the show with a squeaky version of “Twinkle Twinkle Little Star” on a tiny violin. He then proudly declared “And now I can say that I have played Carnegie Hall.” The evening was a rousing success from start to finish and drew celebrities including Donald and Melania Trump, Martha Stewart, Howard Stern, Oscar-nominated actor Josh Brolin, Top Chef's Tom Colicchio, Emmy Award-winning actress Mariska Hargitay and Emmy-nominated actor Christopher Meloni of Law & Order: Special Victims Unit, actor Ralph Macchio of Ugly Betty, Today Show anchor Matt Lauer, and actress Lake Bell. Nearly 3,000 people were in attendance.
This year's Concert for Autism Speaks was the second featuring the comedic talents of Jerry Seinfeld. Other past headliners have included Lionel Richie, Bill Cosby, Toni Braxton, Jay Leno, Natalie Cole and Paul Simon.
During his remarks, Bob Wright, Autism Speaks co-founder and event co-chair, emphasized the escalating urgency for autism insurance reform, commending the 15 states where such bills have passed. He also recognized President Obama's pledge to support autism research and urged all of the attendees to get involved in supporting legislation and government action.
Autism Speaks would like to thank the many sponsors of the event, including Stephen Wise of the KRG Children's Charitable Foundation who sponsored our VIP Pre-Show Reception, Autism Speaks' Board Member Mel Karmazin and Toys‘R'Us.