PBS SoCal Hosts Star-Studded Telethon to Fill Funding Gap

In response to the impending loss of $1.1 billion in federal funding for public media over the next two fiscal years, PBS SoCal is organizing a nationwide fundraising effort. On November 8th, the station will air a 3-hour live telethon titled "We ❤ Public Television" to engage viewers and fill the funding gap.

The telethon will feature a star-studded lineup, including performances by Josh Groban, Jamie Lee Curtis, Ken Burns, Ziggy Marley, and other renowned artists and public figures. Viewers can also expect to see archival clips from beloved PBS shows like Masterpiece, Austin City Limits, and Sesame Street, as well as live testimonials from supporters.

Following the broadcast, the telethon will be available on the free PBS App from November 27th through December 24th, 2025, allowing more people to participate in the fundraising effort. "This Telethon is going to be a giant lovefest celebrating Public Television," commented PBS SoCal's Executive Producer Maura Daly Phinney. "Every contribution that viewers make will go to their local public television station and help them fill the gap created by the loss of our federal funding."