Paul Rudd, Jason Sudeikis, Rob Riggle Raise $3.5 Million for Cancer Research
By Movieguide® Contributor
Paul Rudd, Jason Sudeikis and Rob Riggle were just three of the major celebrities who helped raise more than $3.5 million for pediatric cancer research in an event called “The Big Slick.”
Additionally, Eric Stonestreet, David Koechner, Heidi Gardner, and their celebrity friends participated in a softball game sponsored by the Kansas City Royals to raise the funds.
Big Slick was started in 2010 when Riggle asked Rudd and Sudeikis if they would host a poker tournament with him to raise money for children’s cancer research. Over the 14 years since, the annual charity event has grown to include a cocktail party, celebrity softball game, party, show, and an online auction.
“I think this might be the biggest turnout we’ve ever had,” Rudd said in an interview. “Every year, we hope for more. We’ve been at the hospital … and it feels bigger.”
Stonestreet said, “Oh, people ask every year, ‘Can I get in on the Big Slick?’ It’s incredible. We’re so happy and thankful for the friends who come.”
Riggle said, “Children’s Mercy Hospital is benefitting from this weekend, and that’s what we need to take care of. I couldn’t be more proud and happy about this whole situation.”
This year’s auction included a ticket to the red carpet premiere of an upcoming movie with Rudd, a trip to see Saturday Night Live with Gardner, and a KU basketball experience with Riggle.
Including this year’s $3.5 million, Bick Slick has raised over $21 million for Children’s Mercy, the researcher they partner with.