The Foundation for AIDS Research (amFaR) gained a reputation as one of Hollywood’s most popular charities, but the group’s longtime association with Harvey Weinstein is now leaving some celebrities wary.
According to The Hollywood Reporter, Pharrell Williams is the latest star to sever ties with the organization, dropping out of a planned performance from an upcoming amFaR fundraiser at this year’s Cannes Film Festival.
While amFaR cited “a scheduling conflict” for Williams’ cancellation, a source tells THR that Williams “dropped out due to negative press surrounding the organization and its Cannes gala,” while a rep for the “Happy” performer declined comment.
Williams’ cancellation comes hot on the heels of Sharon Stone’s announcement that she would be stepping aside as co-chair of the event, with a rep offering a “vague explanation” by telling THR: “Sharon will not be attending Cannes now. She is going to work on a new project.”
As THR reminds, amFaR’s annual Cannes fundraiser had become one of the festival’s hottest tickets over the years, with A-list talent including Leonardo DiCaprio, Nicole Kidman and Jessica Chastain lending their star power to the group’s fundraising efforts.
However, recent reports that Weinstein engineered a dubious deal to profit from fundraising proceeds has proven damaging to the charity, leading to the ouster of the group’s chairman, shoe designer Kenneth Cole, earlier this year.
According to THR, amfAR has announced that Sting and Shaggy are now confirmed to perform in place of Williams.
