David Hyde Pierce Supports The Actors Fund

Frasier star David Hyde Pierce championed the cause of one of his favorite charities, The Actors Fund, at an event Monday night in Manhattan.

"The reality in this country is times are tough," said Pierce, pictured with Uinterview Founder Erik Meers, left, and Business Development Director Joe Kennedy, right, who was one of the evening's hosts. "We need patrons of the arts, we need patrons of the theater and that means more than just being a patron who goes to the theater. Those ticket prices don't take care of these people who give their lives and give their security so we can all be entertained and so our culture can improve in this country."

He continued, "I was on Frasier, so I don't need The Actors Fund. But I give my money to it because I believe so much in what it's doing."

The Actors Fund, which was established in 1882, provides support for nearly 12,000 arts professionals each year in television, movies, theater, dance, opera and radio. The organization provides financial support for struggling artists, as well as mental health services, senior and disabled care, youth programs and addiction counseling. —ISHITA SINGH

For more information or to donate to The Actors Fund, please visit:

https://www.actorsfund.org/