Shaquille O'Neal brought together musicians and comedians on Oct. 7 to raise money for the Shaquille O'Neal Foundation, and he made sure his mom had the best seat in the house. The charity gala, simply named The Event, took place at MGM Grand Garden Arena in Las Vegas and featured performances from Dan + Shay, Anderson Paak, Jennifer Hudson, John Legend and more. Not only did the event help raise funds for O'Neal's charitable organization, but it also gave his mom, Lucille O'Neal, a night to remember.
According to People, The Event featured a live auction, during which O'Neal paid $20,000 to secure a seat for his mom at the most coveted table — one that was directly next to the performers onstage. After winning the seat, O'Neal reportedly called his mom up to the stage, and she danced her way there, clearly excited to watch the show from such a close vantage point.
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Of course, that chunk of cash isn't the only donation O'Neal made on the night. He also reportedly won a vacation to Bora Bora during the live auction with a bid of $50,000. According to The Event's website, the night included a private dinner, and the live auction featured "once-in-a-lifetime" packages. The main event was the concert with performers including Dan + Shay, The Voice's Legend, Paak and more. Joel McHale served as host for the event, and comedian Ray Romano also appeared.
Tickets for the concert began at $50, and sponsorship packages ranged from $15,000 to $100,000. All proceeds benefited the Shaquille O'Neal Foundation, which works to help underserved youth through organizations such as The Boys and Girls Club. The Event was presented by Pepsi Stronger Together.
The Shaquille O'Neal Foundation was established in 2019. According to its website, the charitable arm "works to instill hope and bring about change in communities, collectively shaping a brighter future for our children." The Event reportedly raised $2.9 million in 2021 and $3.15 million in 2023.
