NFL & MLB Legends Unite for Charity at Jim Crane Celebrity Golf Classic

The star-studded event raised over $1 million for youth, health, and community-focused causes.

Apr. 11, 2026 at 9:21pm

A vibrant, energetic painting in the style of LeRoy Neiman, featuring bold, expressive brushstrokes and neon colors that capture the excitement and energy of a high-profile charity golf tournament featuring a diverse array of sports legends and celebrities.A star-studded charity golf event brings together sports icons and entertainers to raise funds for local communities.Palm City Today

The first-ever Jim Crane Celebrity Golf Classic brought together an impressive lineup of NFL and MLB Hall of Famers, as well as renowned figures from music and other sports, to raise funds for charitable organizations in Florida and beyond. The event, co-hosted by rapper Curtis '50 Cent' Jackson and Houston Astros owner Jim Crane, generated over $1 million in donations, with a particular focus on making a positive impact on local communities.

Why it matters

Celebrity-driven charity events have the potential to raise significant funds and awareness for important causes, but they also raise questions about the most effective ways for famous individuals to use their influence to create positive change. This event highlights the power of sports legends and entertainers coming together to support their communities, while also sparking discussion about the role of celebrity philanthropy.

The details

The golf tournament featured an impressive lineup of attendees, including NFL greats like Eric Dickerson, Marshall Faulk, Jim Kelly, Ray Lewis, and Barry Sanders, as well as MLB legends such as Jeff Bagwell, Ken Griffey Jr., Andruw Jones, and Mike Piazza. The entertainment industry was also well-represented, with rappers Scarface, Trae tha Truth, and DaBaby joining 50 Cent. Local heroes, including PGA Tour member Ken Duke and former MLB All-Star Michael Brantley, added to the star-studded event.

  • The first-ever Jim Crane Celebrity Golf Classic was held on January 26, 2026.

The players

Jim Crane

The Houston Astros owner and co-host of the charity golf event.

Curtis '50 Cent' Jackson

The rapper who co-hosted the Jim Crane Celebrity Golf Classic with Jim Crane.

Jack Nicklaus

The legendary golfer who received a $25,000 donation for his children's healthcare foundation during the event.

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What they’re saying

“It's just good to see everybody pitch in and help and give something back.”

— Jim Crane, Houston Astros owner

“It's just good to see everybody pitch in and help and give something back.”

— Jack Nicklaus, Golf legend

What’s next

The organizers of the Jim Crane Celebrity Golf Classic plan to make the event an annual tradition, continuing to raise funds for charitable causes in Florida and beyond.

The takeaway

This event showcases the potential for celebrity-driven philanthropy to make a significant impact on local communities. By leveraging the star power and influence of sports legends, musicians, and other public figures, the Jim Crane Celebrity Golf Classic was able to generate over $1 million in donations for youth, health, and community-focused charities. This raises important questions about the most effective ways for celebrities to use their platforms to create positive change.