VH1’s “Dear Mama”: Halle Berry, Anthony Anderson, Kelly Rowland, Lala Anthony, Robin Thicke & More [Photos]

Photos: VH1’s “Dear Mama: An Event To Honor Moms”

Over the weekend, VH1 held its second annual Mother’s Day special “Dear Mama: An Event To Honor Moms”. Co-hosted by Anthony Anderson and La La Anthony, the event recognizes mothers with celebrity guests paying tribute to the women who have shaped their success. Celebrity participants include Halle Berry, Mary J. Blige, Jodeci, DJ Khaled, Gladys Knight, Ludacris, Maxwell, Chris Paul, Kelly Rowland and Robin Thicke.

The evening included: co-hosts Anthony and La La welcoming guests to the show by sharing anecdotes about their own mothers and sparking some hilarious commentary; DJ Khaled providing a rare glimpse into his home via a tribute to his fiancée Nicole Tuck and their six month-old son Ashad. He then introduced Mr. Dalvin and K-Ci of the R&B group Jodeci, who serenaded the mothers in the house with their classic hit “Forever My Lady”.

Ludacris commemorated the lasting impact of his mother Roberta Shields, and her unconditional love and support, while Robin Thicke honored his mother Gloria Loring with a heartfelt selection of beloved jingles written by his father Alan Thicke and originally sung by his mother including “It Takes Diff’rent Strokes” and “The Facts of Life” culminating in a joint performance of her #1 80s hit ballad “Friends and Lovers,” with charmingly reworked lyrics replacing “lover” with “mother”.

Kelly Rowland applauded her best friend La La for her friendship, great parenting advice and exemplary skills as a mother and role model to her son Kiyan, followed by a surprise performance by Anthony Anderson of his own rendition of Bruno Mars’ hit “That’s What I Like,” in honor of his co-host.

Halle Berry paid tribute to the crucial work of the Jenesse Center, a non-profit organization which aims to prevent domestic violence against women and children by introducing survivor Yesica Mendoza who took the stage to express her gratitude for the center and Berry’s commitment to the organization.

Queen of R&B Mary J. Blige gave a moving speech about her mother Cora Blige and then surprised her with a jaw dropping performance by Gladys Knight who sang her classic “Midnight Train to Georgia.” Check out a few flix inside the event and on the red carpet!

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

“Dear Mama: An Event To Honor Moms” premieres Monday, May 8th at 10 PM ET/PT. Photos: Todd Williamson/Getty Images for VH1, Rich Fury/Getty Images for VH1

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