The beloved cast of ABC’s acclaimed political series “Scandal” is preparing for a special reunion, showcasing their iconic fast-paced dialogue for a charitable cause. Stars such as Kerry Washington, Tony Goldwyn, and Bellamy Young will participate in a live virtual script reading on November 17 to assist hurricane relief efforts in western North Carolina.
Starting Friday, fans can visit an online platform to make donations in order to secure a spot for this unique event. The funds raised will support the United Way of North Carolina. Individuals who contribute will have the exclusive opportunity to join a pre-event session with the cast, featuring an introduction from the show’s creator, Shonda Rhimes.
Additional guest stars have yet to be revealed, but there’s also a chance for one lucky contributor to be chosen through a contest on the fundraising platform Prizeo. The winner will be given the opportunity to act out a role from the script alongside the original cast. Young reassured that the chosen participant can take their time and read at their own pace.
Young, who portrayed the character Mellie Grant, the first lady and later Republican presidential candidate in the series, has strong ties to Asheville, North Carolina, where she was raised. The initiative was conceived by Young and a friend before being presented to her “Scandal” co-stars, all of whom enthusiastically agreed to take part. She remarked that this will mark the first time in five years the full cast has reunited for a script reading since the show concluded its seven-season run in 2018.
The specific episode selected for the reading remains undisclosed at this time.
Expressing her concerns, Young noted the severe impact of Hurricane Helene on her hometown, which was struck by the storm a month ago, resulting in extensive damage. “We consulted with North Carolina Governor Roy Cooper, and the need for rebuilding is great,” she shared. The estimated costs for recovery in the state reach approximately $53 billion, as significant infrastructure has been compromised. Over 100,000 residents are still under an indefinite boil water advisory due to the storm’s aftermath.
Young expressed confidence that her former colleagues would eagerly participate and emphasized her belief that the dedicated fans of “Scandal,” known as gladiators, would also be keen to get involved. Currently residing in New York, she often encounters fans of the show. “I had a chat with someone just yesterday on 53rd Street,” she recounted.
Hurricane Helene is noted as the most lethal hurricane to impact the U.S. mainland since Katrina struck back in 2005.