Animal rights foundation ‘Voice For The Animals’ (VFTA) welcomed a number of celebrity guests for their 3rd Annual “Wait..Wait… Don’t Kill Me!” Comedy Gala at The Broad Stage in Santa Monica, CA on Saturday September 7. “Wait Wait…Don’t Kill Me!,” (which is inspired by the popular NPR weekly program “Wait, Wait…Don’t Tell Me”) was an evening of laughs and entertainment that hilariously spotlighted animal news, views and other topical animal events. Actor/ Comedian Kevin Nealon served as the evening’s host, with Lily Tomlin serving as scorekeeper, and comedians Margaret Cho, Pete Holmes, Leslie Jordan and Allee Willis competed with one another answering animal themed questions for more than 500 guests. 

Other celebrities in attendance included Bishop Briggs, Jai Rodriguez, Rachelle Henry, and Frankie Grande, who served as the evening’s special guest with an enthusiastic musical performance during the show. TV personality Maria Menounos, producer Heidi Jo Markel, and LUSH Cosmetics were honored with the show’s annual Lily Awards for all their positive contributions to the animal rights community. 

Aside from a night of unforgettable comedy, guests were also treated to drinks by Dulce Vida Tequila, Jägermeister, Peroni, White Tiger Vodka, and a Butterfly gift set by LUSH Cosmetics. A live auction also took place with Lily Tomlin auctioning off a phone voice recording and a blue Carolina Herrera dress worn by her at the Emmy’s. Maria Menounos jumped on stage impromptu to show everyone the dress on her phone and encouraged guests to give to help save the animals! VFTA supporter and music icon Cher, also donated 2 backstage meet & greets at an upcoming show in Las Vegas. All proceeds from the event supported VFTA to continue their fight for creating respect and empathy for animals through education, rescue, legislation and advocacy.  

By Nicole Castellanos, Style & Society

Photo Credit: Vince Bucci Photography