2014 MDA Telethon to Feature Performances by Rascal Flatts, Sara Evans
Next to their October 2011 induction into the Grand Ole Opry, Rascal Flatts‘ most recent appearance on the iconic stage was one of the more special moments in the trio’s career. Their Opry performance of the inspirational “My Wish” was filmed for Sunday’s MDA telethon on ABC.
“As much fun as it was performing for this year’s MDA telethon, getting to meet with Bryson Foster who’s affected by muscular dystrophy was the real highlight of the whole experience for me and the guys,” says lead singer Gary LeVox. “We’re inspired by him and all that MDA does to help the families it serves, and we’re honored to be part of the progress that’s being made to end these life-threatening diseases.”
This will be the 14-year-old Foster’s third appearance on the broadcast. He served as emcee for the Nashville taping, introducing Rascal Flatts and Sara Evans, who performed “A Little Bit Stronger” for the show. The North Carolina teen also conducted interviews with the artists backstage.
LeAnn Rimes had a one-on-one chat with a California teen affected by the disease. Backstage at the at the Hollywood Palladium, she met with 15-year-old MDA Ambassador Abbey Umali of Redlands, before taking the stage to sing her poignant hit, “Give.” Watch her interview below.
Brad Paisley will make a special appeal on behalf of families served by MDA. He’ll also take cameras onto the set of his ABC show, “Rising Star,” to give a behind-the-scenes look at the reality competition that ended its inaugural season earlier this week.
The 49th annual MDA Show of Strength Telethon will air this Sunday, August 31st at 9:00 p.m. ET on ABC and will also feature American Authors, Aloe Blacc, Jason Derulo, Fall Out Boy, Bret Michaels, Matt Nathanson and R5, among a long list of other celebs.