Hope for Haiti telethon raises millions

Madonna performed at the Hope for Haiti Now telethon. Photo / AP

The Hope for Haiti Now telethon has raised US$57 million (NZ$79 million) so far.

The TV show, which was hosted by Hollywood actor George Clooney, featured a star-studded line-up with celebrities performing as well as manning phone lines.

President of the Entertainment Industry Foundation Lisa Paulsen said in a statement: "The public has set a new standard of giving for a relief telethon with Hope for Haiti Now and the donations continue to come in."

In total, more than 140 stars took part to perform and raise funds for the Caribbean nation.

Speaking at the event, Clooney said: "This is a tragedy that reaches across all borders, all boundaries.

"It demands our attention, our help and our compassion. The Haitian people need help. They need to know that they are not alone. They need to see that we still care."

Madonna, Sting, Coldplay and Bruce Springsteen were among those to perform, while celebrities including Tom Cruise, Reese Witherspoon, Penelope Cruz and Mel Gibson took calls from people wishing to make donations.

The telethon was broadcast from Los Angeles, New York and London.

A live performance album - featuring a star-studded line-up - is also available for download on iTunes.

Download link here

Apple, the labels and the artists involved are donating their share of proceeds from the sale of the album to charity.

- BANG! SHOWBIZ