‘American Idol’ to aid poverty fight

“American Idol” will stage a two-night charity event next month to benefit organizations that help children and young people in extreme poverty in America and Africa.

The top-rated Fox series is partnering with the Charity Projects Entertainment Fund for “Idol Gives Back,” which will be broadcast April 24 and 25.

The first night will feature the top six “Idol” finalists performing songs that can be considered “life anthems.” The second night will bring performances by Gwen Stefani, Josh Groban, Pink, Michael Buble, Annie Lennox, Il Divo and popular movie character Borat Sagdiyev (Sacha Baron Cohen). Viewers that night will also be able to make donations via toll-free lines and the Internet.

The money raised by the two shows will be distributed equally between the U.S. and Africa.