This is an archival story that predates current editorial management.
This archival content was written, edited, and published prior to LAist's acquisition by its current owner, Southern California Public Radio ("SCPR"). Content, such as language choice and subject matter, in archival articles therefore may not align with SCPR's current editorial standards. To learn more about those standards and why we make this distinction, please click here.
George Clooney could end up hosting the biggest one-night fundraiser in presidential history.How he ended up being chosen as the host of the May 10 fundraiser for Obama had as much to do more with the actor's pad in Studio City as his good looks, star power or loyalty to the president, according to The Hollywood Reporter.
Originally, DreamWorks Animation CEO Jeffrey Katzenberg was going to host the springtime event at his home, but his new $35 million home wasn't going to be ready in time to host the prez. The organizers didn't want to host the event at a hotel ballroom, so they had to hunt for someone with a great place and a great location that wouldn't cause an epic Obamajam. Reese Witherspoon's home in Brentwood was considered, but ultimately Clooney's home in Studio City looked like the best bet.
And that turned out to be an extraordinarily great move for fundraising, because the national contest to win a spot at the fundraiser has stirred up interest all over the country. In fact, most of the estimated $10 million for the fundraiser—double what organizers expected—will probably come from people who aren't even at the dinner.
Related:
You Can Go to George Clooney's House... If You "Donate" to Barack Obama's Campaign
George Clooney to Host $6 Million Obama Fundraiser, Refuses to Sing
