Television stars, Los Angeles firefighters and pickleball pros competed in the 2025 Emmys Pickleball Slam to benefit the Television Academy Foundation and the Widows, Orphans & Disabled Firefighter’s Fund. (photo by Mark Von Holden/Invision for the Television Academy/AP Content Services)

The Television Academy Foundation raised $100,000 at the 2025 Emmys Pickleball Slam on May 18 benefiting the Widows, Orphans & Disabled Firefighter’s Fund and the foundation’s education programs.

Television stars, sports luminaries, entertainment industry executives, Television Academy leadership and firefighters teamed up for the all-day doubles tournament. Phil Keoghan (“The Amazing Race”) hosted the event, which included Da’Vinchi (“Black Mafia Family), Delante Desouza (“Winning Time: The Rise of the Lakers Dynasty”), Jason George (“Grey’s Anatomy”), Orlando Jones (“Abbott Elementary”), Candice King (“The Vampire Diaries”), Steven Krueger (“Yellowjackets”), Quentin Lake (Los Angeles Rams), Jessie Prez (“Georgie & Mandy’s First Marriage”), Ed Quinn (“The Oval”), Sugar Ray Leonard (world champion pro boxer) and Vince Van Patten (“World Poker Tour;” pickleball pro).

Proceeds support the WODFF’s Wildfire Fund, which distributes donations directly to firefighter families affected by the January fires. Funds will also benefit the Television Academy Foundation’s core education initiatives.

The event included red carpet arrivals, a pickleball clinic, doubles tournament competition, live auctions and an after party with awards presentations. The first-place Beginner Champions Team winners are Ryan O’Nan and Beata Poźniak. The first-place Intermediate Champions Team winners are John Quinn and Chris Ahearn (“Let’s Make a Deal”), and the first-place Advanced Champions Team winners are Maggie Brascia and Kristen Flagler.

“Our heartfelt thanks to all the celebrities, athletes, firefighters and sponsors whose participation and generosity made this event a true celebration of purpose,” said Tina Perry, chair of the Television Academy Foundation. “Their energy, enthusiasm and compassion made this event unforgettable and, more importantly, impactful as it furthers the missions of both the Widows, Orphans & Disabled Firefighter’s Fund and the Foundation.”

Established in 1959 as the charitable arm of the Television Academy, the Television Academy Foundation is dedicated to preserving the legacy of television while educating and inspiring those who shape its future. For information, visit televisionacademy.com/foundation.