Today, the Television Academy Foundation announced it held its second annual Emmys Pickleball Slam fundraiser on Sunday, May 17, at the Calabasas Pickleball Club in Calabasas, California.
Jason George (Grey’s Anatomy) and Phil Keoghan (The Amazing Race) cohosted the charity event where television stars, entertainment industry leaders and pickleball enthusiasts came out for the doubles tournament. Celebrity participants included Wayne Brady (Let’s Make a Deal), Jonathan Mangum (Let’s Make a Deal), Mike Merrill (The Black Hamptons; Where There’s Smoke), Jessie Prez (George & Mandy’s First Marriage) and celebrity chef Jet Tila.
The full-day event included red carpet arrivals, a doubles tournament, a live auction and an awards presentation for the winning teams in three categories:
1st Place Beginner Champions Team: Emily Ma and Jesus Ma
1st Place Intermediate Champions Team: David Hutkin and Dean Hutkin
1st Place Advanced Champions Team: Brodie Smith and Sky Smith
“Our sincerest appreciation to all the celebrities, sponsors and players who came together for this event in support of the Foundation,” said Tina Perry, chair of the Television Academy Foundation. “Their generosity is vital to advancing our renowned educational initiatives, which provide aspiring storytellers with the access, skills and opportunities needed to succeed in our industry. Together, they have helped ensure that the pathway into television remains vibrant, inclusive and within reach for all.”
Sponsors for the 2026 Emmys Pickleball Slam included 101 Studios; CRBN; Dooney & Bourke; Decoy Wines; Evoke, A Division of MAI; FIJI Water; JOOLA; Kaylin + Kaylin Pickles; LMNT, Zero Sugar Hydration; NBCUniversal; Nike; Pizza Girl; RTP; The Murray/Reese Foundation; Trelle and trü frü.
Download the press release here.
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Contact:
Jane Sparango
breakwhitelight for the Television Academy Foundation
jane@breakwhitelight.com
310.339.1214
