‘Idol Gives Back’ show

Brad Pitt appears at the Kodak Theatre on Sunday for the taping of the “Idol Gives Back” fundraiser. His charity to help New Orleans recover from Hurricane Katrina is among the groups set to benefit from the fundraiser, which last year raised $76 million.  (Barbara Davidson / Los Angeles Times)

This season’s remaining Idols, from left, David Archuleta, Carly Smithson, David Cook, Brooke White, Michael Johns, Kristy Lee Cook, Jason Castro and Syesha Mercado, sing together for the “Idol Gives Back” fundraiser, taped Sunday at the Kodak Theatre in Hollywood and set to air Wednesday on Fox. The “American Idol” charity event benefits relief programs for children and young people in extreme poverty in the U.S. and Africa. Beneficiaries this year include the Global Fund, Malaria No More, Children’s Health Fund and victims of Hurricane Katrina.  (Barbara Davidson / Los Angeles Times)

Former “Idol” winner Carrie Underwood performs at the “Idol Gives Back” fundraising special taped Sunday.  (Barbara Davidson / Los Angeles Times)

Carrie Underwood sings George Michael’s “Praying for Time” with an orchestra at the “Idol Gives Back” show. Fox will air the fundraising special Wednesday. Organizers hope to raise $100 million for charities that benefit poor children.  (Barbara Davidson / Los Angeles Times)

Robin Williams, at “Idol Gives Back” at the Kodak Theatre on Sunday, jokes about his love for Simon Cowell.  (Barbara Davidson / Los Angeles Times)

“Idol” judges Randy Jackson, left, Paula Abdul and Simon Cowell laugh at Robin Williams’ routine Sunday.  (Barbara Davidson / Los Angeles Times)

Robin Williams shares a tender moment with “American Idol” judge Simon Cowell at the “Idol Gives Back” show at the Kodak.  (Barbara Davidson / Los Angeles Times)

Fergie is flanked by sisters Ann, left, and Nancy Wilson of Heart at the “Idol Gives Back” gala. They performed Heart’s “Barracuda” together.  (Barbara Davidson / Los Angeles Times)

John Legend performs at the “Idol Gives Back” show at the Kodak.  (Barbara Davidson / Los Angeles Times)

Dancers heat up Gloria Estefan’s performance at the “Idol Gives Back” fundraising special, taped Sunday at the Kodak Theatre in Hollywood.  (Barbara Davidson / Los Angeles Times)

Pop star Miley Ray Cyrus at “Idol Gives Back.”  (Barbara Davidson / Los Angeles Times)

Teen sensation Miley Ray Cyrus performs at “Idol Gives Back.”  (Barbara Davidson / Los Angeles Times)

NFL football players Eli, left, and Peyton Manning appear at “Idol Gives Back” at the Kodak.  (Barbara Davidson / Los Angeles Times)

Actress Reese Witherspoon at “Idol Gives Back.”  (Barbara Davidson / Los Angeles Times)

Charlie Wilson, left, and Snoop Dogg perform “Can’t Say Goodbye” at the Kodak event.  (Barbara Davidson / Los Angeles Times)

Lead singer Adam Levine performs with Maroon 5.  (Barbara Davidson / Los Angeles Times)

Sheila E. performs on drums at “Idol Gives Back,” taped Sunday at the Kodak Theatre.  (Barbara Davidson / Los Angeles Times)

Annie Lennox at the Kodak for “Idol Gives Back.”  (Barbara Davidson / Los Angeles Times)

“American Idol” contestants Kristy Lee Cook, left, David Cook and Carly Smithson sing as part of a group number at the “Idol Gives Back” fundraising event at the Kodak Theatre. The show was taped Sunday for airing Wednesday night on Fox.  (Barbara Davidson / Los Angeles Times)

This season’s “American Idol” contestants sing as part of a finale number at the fundraising event Sunday at the Kodak Theatre in Hollywood. Organizers hope to raise $100 million in this year’s charity campaign.  (Barbara Davidson / Los Angeles Times)