American Idol is gearing up for the second annual Idol Gives Back charity extravaganza.  The two and a half hour event (which will air Wednesday, April 9, starting at 7:30pm ET/PT) is going to be an excessively star-studded affair, featuring celebrities from all areas of popular culture.  Today, FOX revealed a list of recent additions to this year's Idol Gives Back and the names are actually quite impressive.  Included are former American Idol contestants Elliott Yamin and Fantasia Barrino, and High School Musical actresses Vanessa Hudgens and Ashley Tisdale.  They join already announced names such as Bono, Brad Pitt and Hannah Montana star Miley Cyrus.

In addition to Fantasia, Yamin and the two High School Musical actresses, comedians Robin Williams, Billy Crystal and Dane Cook will be there, as will actors Jennifer Connelly, 24's Kiefer Sutherland, Forest Whitaker, and Amy Adams.  Also making an appearance, for the second year in a row, will be singer Celine Dion.  I'm guessing she won't be doing another duet with Elvis.  An impressive list, to be sure.

To much of the American Idol audience, despite the massive star power of these guests, the most highly anticipated of all these celebrities might just be the two High School Musical actresses.  Vanessa Hudgens and Ashley Tisdale are incredibly popular among a certain subset of young people.  If you're not into the High School Musical thing (I don't blame you) this may come as a surprise.  Just wait for the applause those two receive come April 9. 

Of all the possible performers on Idol Gives Back, the one I'm most looking forward to would have to be John Legend.  Unfortunately, most of the artists who are set to perform aren't really up my alley.  I'd like to see more rock bands, but I can't complain.  It will be a fun night of television.


-Oscar Dahl, BuddyTV Senior Writer
(Image Courtesy of Disney)