While the world continues to fight the COVID-19 pandemic, the 50th anniversary of Earth Day looked a bit different this year. Instead of mass gatherings to celebrate the planet, some celebrations were held online.
Actor Danny DeVito participated in the stay-at-home Earth Day celebrations with a reading of Dr. Seuss’ “The Lorax,” a 1971 children’s book about environmental destruction. The story is meant to teach young readers to stand up for those who can’t, with messages like “Unless someone like you cares a whole awful lot, nothing is going to get better. It’s not.”
DeVito, who was also the voice of the character in the 2012 film adaptation of the book, shot the video in his home, where he is self-isolating during the coronavirus pandemic.
DeVito also recorded a video in March urging New Yorkers to stay home to avoid spreading the novel coronavirus. In the video, which was posted to Mayor Andrew Cuomo’s Twitter account, the 75-year-old actor suggests watching TV instead of going out.
“Hi everybody, it’s Danny DeVito, and I’m asking you from the bottom of my heart, all over the state of New York, stay home,” he said in the video message. “I mean everybody. I mean, we got this virus, this pandemic and, you know, young people can get it and they can transmit it to old people and the next thing you know — I’m out of there.”
Danny DeVito wants you to stay home and save lives.#NewYorkStateStrongerTogether @DannyDeVito pic.twitter.com/7V8yXbqHwB
— Andrew Cuomo (@NYGovCuomo) March 22, 2020
Numerous other celebrities have also been reading stories for children during the health crisis on Instagram’s @savewithstories account. The initiative from actresses Jennifer Garner and Amy Adams aims to raise money for Save the Children and No Kid Hungry. Participating celebrities include Jamie Lee Curtis, Kelly Clarkson, Kate Winslet, Steve Carell and more.
“Frozen”‘s Josh Gad has also been reading stories on Twitter, as has former “Reading Rainbow” host LeVar Burton. Dolly Parton has also launched her own weekly storytime called “Goodnight With Dolly” and even Santa Claus is reading books on his podcast.
Just trying to do my part and help keep you and your kids (somewhat) sane? See you tonight! https://t.co/WoqxNcKEg4
— Josh Gad (@joshgad) March 16, 2020
Watch DeVito read “The Lorax” below:
Have your children been watching any videos of celebrities reading stories?