Marcus Mumford and Carey Mulligan Break Records with $7.6 Million Raised for Children in Conflict

Marcus Mumford and Carey Mulligan just turned a night of music at the El Rey Theatre into more than $7.6 million for Children in Conflict, the nonprofit supporting kids in war zones and high-conflict areas. The October 4 Wassail benefit featured performances from Mumford&Sons, Brandi Carlile, Sierra Ferrell, and Jensen McRae, with Jack Whitehall emceeing and readings from Viola Davis and Octavia Spencer. When Mulligan told the room it was more money than the event had ever raised, the crowd let out an audible gasp.

That gasp makes sense. According to Mumford, the record total will help support more than one million children living in war zones. The couple has served as longtime global ambassadors for the charity, and this year’s event shows what happens when a stacked lineup meets a cause people genuinely believe in. Between the performances, the readings, and the hosting, it was a full evening of star power pointed at something that matters.

For fans, it is a reminder that some of the biggest names in music and film are quietly (and not so quietly) doing serious work off stage. Mumford has also been making the rounds lately, including a stop on Jimmy Kimmel Live, so the momentum is not slowing down. The question now is simple: if your favorite artist announced a benefit show in your city, would you be first in line for tickets? Tell us in the comments.