Watch MDA Show of Strength Telethon

The MDA Show of Strength Telethon is an annual television event that airs on ABC and features a star-studded lineup of performers, hosts, and special guests. The telethon is a fundraising event to benefit the Muscular Dystrophy Association (MDA), a non-profit organization that is committed to finding treatments and cures for muscular dystrophy and related diseases.

The 2013 edition of the telethon was hosted by Jerry Lewis, a legendary comedian and long-time supporter of the MDA. Lewis, who had hosted the telethon for many years, returned to the show after a hiatus of several years. Joining Lewis as co-hosts were Nancy O'Dell, a television personality and entertainment journalist, and Ace Young, a singer and former American Idol contestant.

The telethon included a mix of live performances, pre-recorded segments, and testimonials from people affected by muscular dystrophy. Some of the musical guests included Billy Gilman, a country singer who first gained fame as a child prodigy; Jann Carl, a country music host and journalist; and Brandon Barash, an actor and musician.

The telethon also featured appearances by a number of celebrities, including Richard Belzer, a comedian and actor; Nigel Lythgoe, an executive producer of American Idol and So You Think You Can Dance; and a number of athletes, including Emmitt Smith of the Dallas Cowboys and Pedro Martinez of the Boston Red Sox.

Throughout the telethon, viewers were invited to pledge donations to the MDA, either by calling a toll-free number or by visiting the organization's website. The funds raised during the telethon are used to support research into muscular dystrophy and related diseases, as well as to provide services and support to individuals and families affected by these conditions.

The MDA Show of Strength Telethon has been a fixture of American television since the 1950s, when it was first hosted by Jerry Lewis as part of his annual Labor Day telethon. Today, the telethon continues to be a powerful tool for raising awareness and funds for the MDA, drawing millions of viewers and millions of dollars in donations each year.

In 2013, the telethon featured a diverse range of musical and comedic talent, along with inspiring stories from people affected by muscular dystrophy. With the help of this star-studded lineup and the generous support of viewers across the country, the MDA was able to continue its vital work in the fight against muscular dystrophy and related diseases.