Chappell Roan is taking Elton John Aids Foundation’s Oscars Watch Party to the “Pink Pony Club!” On Tuesday, the foundation announced that Roan will perform at the annual gala on March 2.
“David and I are thrilled to gather with friends and supporters once again, and we’re honored to welcome the bold and authentic Chappell Roan as this year’s performer, whose artistry embodies the power of music to inspire change,” John said in a statement about her upcoming performance.
While Roan will take on performance duties, Jean Smart, Sheryl Lee Ralph, Neil Patrick Harris, and David Burtka will host the event with John and David Furnish to raise funds to end AIDS and the stigma surrounding the LGBTQ community.
Megan Thee Stallion, Hozier, Sharon Stone, Mick Jagger, and Sean Penn are among the confirmed attendees for the watch party, which reunites A-list guests from across the music industry and Hollywood.
“Music has always been a force for change, uniting communities, raising awareness, and inspiring hope in the fight against AIDS,” added John. “Today, as AIDS still claims a life every minute, that spirit fuels our mission to end the epidemic by standing against stigma and ensuring equal access to care.”
John has long been a fan of Roan, and told The Ankler in December that he gave her advice about dealing with her “sudden success.”
“I just try and calm her down and say, ‘Listen, it’s fine. It’s fine. Do what you want. Don’t listen to anybody. Walk at your own speed. Do not listen to the record company saying, “We want another album, we want another album.” Do it when you’re ready to do it,’” John told the outlet. “I’ve got that experience. I’ve been through everything in my life as far as knowing what to do in music, seeing people come, seeing people go. Sometimes they disappear much too quickly.”
Back in June, he shared a photo with Roan and said they had met for an “evening of pizza and outrageous laughter” after she appeared on his Apple Music radio show, Rocket Hour. “I rang you the other night and said, ‘Listen, I’m not stalking you, but I’m as excited about your album’s success as you are,’” he told her on the show. “It’s wonderful to see true talent being recognized.”
