Jackman spends his birthday on stage

Hugh Jackman

Hugh Jackman

Published Oct 15, 2013

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London - Hugh Jackman raised $1.85-million for charity on his birthday on Saturday.

The Wolverine actor celebrated his 45th birthday with a show at Hollywood's Dolby Theatre, where he sang, danced and told stories for his One Night Only show, backed by a 17-member orchestra.

The benefit concert - attended by 4 500 people - raised the huge sum to benefit the Motion Picture & Television Fund.

The show was a variation on the star's run on Broadway in New York, where he also sang and danced and shared stories.

He joked with the audience: "I'm 45 or as they call it here in Los Angeles - 36. It opens me up to more commercial opportunities. Maybe I can start advertising Viagra now."

The night included a few film clips, selections from Hollywood musicals, including a high-energy tap-dancing routine through Singin' in the Rain, and selections from Guys And Dolls and Les Miserables.

Hugh talked about his family and paid tribute to his wife, Deborra-Lee Furness, and shared music from his home country, Australia.

Speaking after the show, he said: "This is probably the most narcissistic way to spend your birthday. I chose my favourite songs and told stories about my life.

"A lot of guys would say to their wife, 'Do you mind if I go play golf with my buddies?' That's how I am about the show.

"I love it. If there's a song I don't like, I cut it and bring in a new song. Everything is something I want to do. So to be here tonight, supporting this cause - and it couldn't have been a more generous crowd if it tried - in every way it was great."

At the climax of the show, the crowd joined in singing happy birthday to Hugh, and he held a quick auction, where two of his sweaty shirts from the night's performance went for $11 000 each. - Bang Showbiz

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