Night of 100 Stars (1982)

Night of 100 Stars Poster

The most glittering, expensive, and exhausting videotaping session in television history took place Friday February 19, 1982 at New York's Radio City Music Hall. The event, for which ticket-buyers payed up to $1,000 a seat (tax-deductible as a contribution to the Actors' Fund) was billed as "The Night of 100 Stars" but, actually, around 230 stars took part. And most of the audience of 5,800 had no idea in advance that they were paying to see a TV taping, complete with long waits for set and costume changes, tape rewinding, and the like. Executive producer Alexander Cohen estimated that the 5,800 Radio City Music Hall seats sold out at prices ranging from $25 to $1,000. The show itself cost about $4 million to produce and was expected to yield around $2 million for the new addition to the Actors Fund retirement home in Englewood, N. J. ABC is reputed to have paid more than $5 million for the television rights.

Film Overview
"Night of 100 Stars" is an unforgettable television special that aired in 1982. The range program was a titanic ensemble to commemorate the centennial of the Actors Fund of America, a nationwide human services company that attends to the requirements of the entertainment neighborhood. It was produced by Alexander H. Cohen and directed by Clark Jones. The three-hour phenomenon was transmitted on ABC and drew in a considerable viewership due to its outstanding gathering of leading actors and entertainers.

Star-Studded Cast
The title "Night of 100 Stars" is a fitting description, as it paraded more than 200 film, television, and music stars, making up a remarkable line-up that included legends such as Fred Astaire, Elizabeth Taylor, James Stewart, Lucille Ball, Bette Davis, Gene Kelly, John Wayne, and numerous others. The unique likewise included fresh faces like John Travolta and Christopher Reeve, making it a mix of the iconic and modern talents of that time.

Program Highlights
The frustrating emphasize of the show was the style procession, where almost 50 female stars glided down the runway showcasing sensational designer ensembles. The fashion extravaganza, organized by style critic Eleanor Lambert, had stars like Joan Collins and Sophia Loren using haute couture garments.

Furthermore, the event showcased a collection of original efficiencies, consisting of comical sketches provided by noteworthy comedians like George Burns, skits from the casts of popular television programs of the time, and captivating musical numbers including popular Broadway and movie stars. The show's signature piece, "Sit Down, You're Rockin' the Boat" from the musical "Guys and Dolls", was performed by a chorus of stars, developing a thrilling spectacle.

All at once, the night was a symphony of laughter, applause, music, and fashion, encapsulating an impressive minute in pop culture history.

Effect and Legacy
"Night of 100 Stars" was a distinct event that stood apart for uniting an incredible range of skill on one phase. The large number and variety of celebrities getting involved made it a landmark event in television history. It raised considerable funds for the Actors Fund of America and heightened the public awareness of the crucial work the company does for people in the entertainment industry.

This unmatched gathering of stars not only created a momentous event but likewise paved the way for many star-packed charity shows that have actually given that become a pillar in the show business.

Even more, the event's success resulted in 2 more models, "Night of 100 Stars II" in 1985 and "Night of 100 Stars III" in 1990, thus extending its legacy.

Conclusion
In conclusion, the 1982 "Night of 100 Stars" was a grand celebration of skill, synergy, and humanitarian spirit that remains an iconic phenomenon in the annals of television and movie history. It stands as a testament to the power of celebrities coming together for a cause and the impact such collective effort can have not just on fundraising outcomes however also on the television landscape.

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