Who You Gonna Call? ‘The Real Ghostbusters’ Cast Unites in LA for 40th Anniversary Charity Event

Saturday Morning Cartoons United, Sony Pictures, and Ghost Corps unite behind Starlight Children’s Foundation to bring joy to hospitalized kids nationwide.

Fandom and philanthropy are joining forces in Los Angeles to mark a historic animation milestone. On Saturday, October 3rd, voice actors, animators, and musicians will gather at LA’s Dynasty Typewriter for Giving Back with The Real Ghostbusters: A 40th Anniversary Celebration. Presented by nonprofit Saturday Morning Cartoons United alongside Sony Pictures, Ghost Corps, and Ghostbusters Give Back, a portion of event proceeds will directly benefit Starlight Children’s Foundation to support seriously ill children nationwide.

Delivering Happiness to Hospitalized Kids: How Starlight Children’s Foundation Transforms Pediatric Care

At the heart of this 40th-anniversary event is a commitment to uplift young patients navigating difficult health challenges. Starlight Children’s Foundation is a national nonprofit dedicated to delivering happiness to seriously ill children and their families through free programs provided to children’s hospitals across the country. Among its signature offerings are character-themed hospital gowns, including custom Ghostbusters-themed Starlight Hospital Gowns that replace standard medical wear with empowering, hero-inspired attire.

“We’re incredibly grateful to the Saturday Morning Cartoons United team and the Ghostbusters community for coming together to help us transform the hospital experience for young patients, bringing moments of fun, happiness, and normalcy to an unfamiliar environment,” said Adam Garone, CEO of Starlight Children’s Foundation. Garone emphasized that funds raised from the event will expand these programs nationwide, helping hospitalized youth feel like Ghostbusters themselves as they tackle their hospital stays.

Original Voice Cast and Special Guests Reunite for a Live Script Reading

Originally premiering in 1986, The Real Ghostbusters defined Saturday morning animation for an entire generation. The anniversary program brings original voice legends and guest stars together to bring the show’s humor and paranormal spirit back to the stage.

Cast and produced by Patrick Cotnoir (The George Lucas Talk Show), the live script reading features original voice actors Laura Summer (“Janine”) and Maurice LaMarche (“Dr. Egon Spengler”). Joining them on stage are Phil LaMarr (MADtv, Futurama) performing as “Winston,” comedian Laraine Newman (Saturday Night Live), and additional surprise guest performers.

Live ’80s Music, Animated Screenings, and Exclusive Fan Experience

In addition to the live script reading, attendees will enjoy a full afternoon of nostalgia and entertainment:

• Live Music by The Flux Capacitors: High-energy ’80s tribute band The Flux Capacitors will perform a full one-hour pre-show set from 1:00 PM to 2:00 PM, followed by opening the main program at 2:00 PM with a live rendition of The Real Ghostbusters theme song. The band has a history with the franchise, having performed alongside Ray Parker Jr. at Ghostbusters Fan Fest in 2019 and composed original tracks for Ghostbusters News and the AR game Ghostbusters: Afterlife ScARe.
• Exclusive Animated Screenings: The event includes a special screening of The Real Ghostbusters alongside McBusters, an independent animated short created by Myke Chillian that celebrates the franchise’s creative influence on animation.
• Merchandise Previews: Attendees can preview a special selection of 40th-anniversary Ghostbusters merchandise to take home.

Turning Fandom into Action: Ghostbusters Give Back and Saturday Morning Cartoons United

The celebration underscores how pop-culture fandom can be harnessed for positive social impact. Through initiatives like Ghostbusters Give Back, the franchise brings fans together to support charities making a difference for children and families.

Event host Saturday Morning Cartoons United is a 501(c)(3) nonprofit screening series that honors legacy animation while supporting community members impacted by industry challenges. Venue partner Dynasty Typewriter, “LA’s comedy clubhouse” located at 2511 Wilshire Blvd. in Los Angeles.

Event Overview and Key Details

• Event Title: Giving Back with The Real Ghostbusters: A 40th Anniversary Celebration
• Date & Schedule: Saturday, October 3rd | Live Music: 1:00 PM – 2:00 PM | Main Program: 2:00 PM – 4:00 PM
• Location: Dynasty Typewriter, 2511 Wilshire Blvd., Los Angeles, CA
• Charity Beneficiary: You can donate online at Starlight Children’s Foundation (starlight.org)
• Organizers: Saturday Morning Cartoons United (cartoonsunited.com) in collaboration with Sony Pictures, Ghost Corps, and Ghostbusters Give Back

Get tickets HERE!