Nashville, TN — Stand Up To Cancer® (SU2C) is set to make history with its ninth telecast, airing live from Nashville for the first time. The one-hour, commercial-free special will be broadcast on Friday, August 15, 2025, at 8 p.m. ET/PT (7 p.m. CT) from The Pinnacle, a brand-new venue in the heart of Music City. The telecast will air on ABC Channel 2 in Nashville.

Known for its deep musical heritage, Nashville will provide the perfect backdrop for this milestone event. By hosting the telecast in the city, SU2C hopes to harness its creative energy and dynamic atmosphere to amplify its mission of uniting researchers, survivors, and artists in the fight against cancer. This year’s show will feature genre-spanning musical collaborations, a creative reflection of the collaborative approach that drives SU2C’s groundbreaking scientific research.

Adding to the excitement, music legend Dolly Parton will make a special guest appearance, lending her unmistakable charm and star power to the night’s proceedings. GRAMMY Award-winning artist Sheryl Crow will serve as host, guiding the evening through moments of inspiration, powerful stories, and unforgettable performances.

The mission of the telecast remains at the forefront of the evening. “The goal of Stand Up To Cancer has always been about working collaboratively to push cancer research forward so we could help patients as quickly as possible,” said Katie Couric, SU2C co-founder. “Bringing the show to Nashville will infuse new energy and excitement into our mission. There’s still so much work to do, and every dollar makes a difference, especially to the families who are counting on novel approaches and therapies.”

SU2C president and CEO Julian Adams, Ph.D., echoed the sentiment, emphasizing the human stories behind the science. “We’re honored to bring this year’s telecast to Nashville and to celebrate the incredible stories of survivorship made possible by Stand Up To Cancer-funded research,” Adams said. “The advancements we’re making are driven by the generosity of our donors and the dedication of cancer researchers across the world.”

Audiences can expect a powerful blend of entertainment and information. The telecast will feature firsthand accounts from SU2C-funded scientists discussing recent breakthroughs, from early detection innovations to cutting-edge treatment approaches. These will be paired with deeply personal stories from survivors whose lives have been transformed by research made possible through donor contributions. The production will be carried across all four major U.S. broadcast networks and more than 30 participating platforms, ensuring maximum accessibility. Viewers will also be able to stream the event on-demand, offering multiple ways to tune in.

Since its founding in 2008 by a group of media and entertainment leaders including Katie Couric and Sherry Lansing, Stand Up To Cancer has redefined the way cancer research is funded and promoted. Its collaborative model now includes more than 3,100 researchers across over 210 institutions worldwide, fueling more than 275 clinical trials and mobilizing 118 research teams. To date, SU2C’s efforts have impacted more than 35,450 clinical trial patients, contributing to groundbreaking therapies and saving tens of thousands of lives.

With the 2025 Nashville telecast, Stand Up To Cancer is poised to deliver more than just another star-studded night—it will be an evening that blends music, storytelling, and scientific passion to inspire hope and action. Whether you are a country music fan, a survivor, a philanthropist, or simply someone who believes in the power of community, this broadcast offers a meaningful opportunity to make a difference.

For more information and to learn how to donate, visit their website.

Author: Tala Shatara