"American Idol" And Viewers Help Out Charities With "Idol Gives Back"

Los Angeles, CA (CNS) - The reality show "American Idol" is all about finding the country's next big singer. Wednesday night, however, the show takes a detour and instead has some of the country's biggest stars coming out for "Idol Gives Back."

This will be Idol's second year of giving viewers the chance to show how generous they are, and not just with their votes. Last year's show raised more than $75 million and scored an honorary Emmy.

The two-and-a-half hour show will feature Bono, Fergie, Brad Pitt, "American Idol" alumni Carrie Underwood and Chris Daughtry, John Legend and Reese Witherspoon. All these stars and more will encourage America to donate to a good cause.

The charities being supported include the Children's Defense Fund, Malaria No More and Pitt's Katrina-based campaign Make It Right.

The final eight contestants will sing on Tuesday on "American Idol," have a reprieve and enjoy "Idol Gives Back" on Wednesday, and then a special elimination show will send one of the contestants home on Thursday.

"Idol Gives Back" airs on FOX at 7:30/6:30c on Wednesday.