As the 2024 Democratic National Convention (DNC) approaches, Chicago is preparing for an influx of Hollywood’s brightest stars. With the historic campaign of Kamala Harris for president at the forefront, the Windy City is set to host a series of high-profile events, concerts, and gatherings featuring some of the biggest names in entertainment and politics.
The DNC, which will take place from August 19 to 22, is expected to draw 50,000 visitors, including 5,000 delegates and alternates, and 15,000 media members. While political heavyweights will dominate the United Center stage, the presence of Hollywood’s elite will bring an extra layer of star power to the proceedings.
One of the most anticipated events is a concert headlined by Grammy Award-winning artist John Legend, who will perform at the Salt Shed on August 20. The event is being held in support of Illinois Governor J.B. Pritzker and is expected to be a major draw for both political and entertainment circles. Legend, who previously performed at the Lincoln Memorial for President Biden’s inauguration in 2021, is no stranger to using his platform for political causes.
Meanwhile, The Daily Show’s Jon Stewart will bring his sharp wit and political commentary to the DNC with a live taping from the Athenaeum Center for Thought & Culture. Stewart and his “all-star news team” will cover the convention’s proceedings from August 19 to 22, culminating in a star-studded Thursday night broadcast that promises to be a must-see event.
In addition to these headline acts, the Creative Coalition, led by CEO Robin Bronk and president Tim Daly, has organized a series of exclusive events throughout the week. The Coalition’s VIP welcome dinner, Empower Policy Luncheon, and benefit gala concert at the Ramova Theatre will bring together celebrities, policymakers, and industry leaders.
The gala concert, co-hosted by Academy Award-winner Octavia Spencer, will feature performances by Joan Jett and the Blackhearts, Drive-By Truckers, and SistaStrings.
Other notable attendees confirmed for the DNC include Emmy-winner Billy Porter, who will perform at a luncheon for veteran politician Nancy Pelosi, and RuPaul’s Drag Race stars Chad Michaels, Silky Nutmeg Ganache, and Jackie Cox, who will headline an LGBTQ+ event in Chicago’s Boys Town. The week’s festivities also feature appearances Bryan Lourd, Donna Langley, Billy Ray, Reese Witherspoon, Ryan Murphy, Danai Gurira, Uzo Aduba, Yvette Nicole Brown, Jesse Tyler Ferguson, and Connie Britton, among others.
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As the campaign season heats up, all eyes will be on Chicago to see how Hollywood’s involvement will shape the narrative surrounding Harris’s bid for the White House. With inflation, the economy, and cost of living at the forefront of voters’ concerns, the intersection of entertainment and politics will undoubtedly play a significant role in this pivotal election year.
The 2024 DNC is poised to be a major cultural and political event, where the stars of Hollywood and the leaders of the Democratic Party will come together to rally support for the nation’s future.
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