Hugh M. Hefner was honored Saturday night for a lifetime of charitable work at the Thalians 55th Anniversary Gala which was held at the Playboy Mansion. The event attracted a large number of celebrity guests as well as local philanthropists who helped celebrate all of the philanthropic work Hugh Hefner has done throughout his lifetime. In addition to honoring Hugh Hefner with the “Mr. Wonderful” award, the event paid tribute to UCLA’s Operation Mend.
From Hugh Hefner: “Longtime friend James Caan gave me the Thalians Mr. Wonderful Award for a lifetime of philanthropy. A very special night.” Hugh Hefner also revealed that the evening raised over $1 million, making the event the “most successful to date.”
The Playboy Mansion also played host to an once-in-a-lifetime concert in addition to the awards ceremony honoring Hugh Hefner. Legendary performers Taylor Dayne, Billy Morrison, Matt Sorum, Donovan Leitch, Mark McGrath, Steve Stevens, Franky Perez, Grant Fitzpatrick and Macy Gray rocked the crowd. In addition to music, guests were also treated to performances by Roastmaster General Jeffery Ross, impressionist Rich Little, comedian Felipe Esparza, recording artist Joy Enriquez, Christopher and Kyle Massey as well as a special performance by Crystal Harris.
Leave it to an event at the Playboy Mansion to host a night to remember. In addition to the star studded performances, guests enjoyed dancing and music from DJ Linney, a gourmet buffet, a full-hosted bar, silent auction, live auction and several Bunnies.
The Thalians, led by President Debbie Reynolds and Board Chair Ruta Lee, works hard to support mental health issues, Autism, Alzheimer’s, Bi-Polar Disorder, Schizophrenia, Phobias, Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder, Depression and Addictions. The event raised much needed funds for the Thalians as well as Operation Mend at UCLA. Operation Mend serves military personnel and veterans who have been injured while serving our country.
For more information about the Thalians, please visit thethalians.org
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