The question surrounding Thundergong Jason Sudeikis is not just about another celebrity event—it’s about one of the most inspiring and impactful charity shows in the United States. The 2025 edition of Thundergong, hosted by actor and comedian Jason Sudeikis in Kansas City, Missouri, once again brought together music, laughter, and philanthropy to raise money for people in need of prosthetic limbs through the Steps of Faith Foundation.
Now in its ninth year, the benefit concert has grown into a major national fundraising event, attracting celebrity performers, musicians, and donors from across the country. The latest edition, held in November 2025, continued that proud tradition while setting new records in participation and donations.
The Meaning Behind Thundergong
Thundergong is not a typical charity show. It’s a night where Hollywood energy meets Midwestern heart, and where entertainment serves a life-changing cause. The annual concert was co-created by Jason Sudeikis and his longtime friend Billy Brimblecom Jr., who serves as the executive director of the Steps of Faith Foundation.
Steps of Faith provides prosthetic care to amputees who lack adequate insurance coverage. Each year, Thundergong’s proceeds fund hundreds of prosthetic limbs, helping recipients regain their mobility and independence. Since its launch in 2017, the event has raised millions of dollars, giving hope to countless individuals.
Thundergong 2025: When and Where It Happened
The 2025 Thundergong concert took place on Saturday, November 9, 2025, at The Uptown Theater in Kansas City, Missouri. The beloved venue, known for its historic charm and excellent acoustics, once again hosted the sold-out show.
Thousands attended in person, while many more tuned in online through the event’s official livestream. The hybrid format—offering both live and virtual participation—has helped Thundergong expand its reach beyond the Kansas City community, making it a national celebration of generosity.
Jason Sudeikis led the evening as host, combining humor, heartfelt storytelling, and spontaneous moments that only he could deliver. His ability to balance laughter with emotion kept audiences fully engaged from start to finish.
Jason Sudeikis’s Deep Connection to Thundergong
Jason Sudeikis’s commitment to Thundergong runs deeper than celebrity involvement. The Emmy-winning Ted Lasso star was born and raised in Kansas City and has long championed causes connected to his hometown. His friendship with Billy Brimblecom Jr. dates back decades, and their shared vision for helping amputees has turned Thundergong into a beacon of hope and community spirit.
Sudeikis brings star power, but he also brings authenticity. Each year, he reminds audiences that the concert isn’t just about entertainment—it’s about restoring mobility and dignity to people who need it most. His sincerity resonates with fans, donors, and recipients alike.
During this year’s show, Sudeikis told the crowd that Thundergong “started with friendship and grew into something that changes lives.” That personal connection continues to drive the event’s success.
The 2025 Thundergong Lineup
Thundergong 2025 showcased an exciting mix of music, comedy, and celebrity appearances. Performers volunteered their time and talent, underscoring the event’s spirit of giving. Highlights from this year’s lineup included:
- Jason Sudeikis – Hosting duties, comedic sketches, and spontaneous musical cameos.
- Billy Brimblecom Jr. and the Band That Saved the World – The event’s house band, delivering powerful live performances throughout the evening.
- Ben Harper – Returning with soulful performances of “Steal My Kisses” and “Better Way.”
- Fred Armisen – Performing musical comedy routines that kept the crowd laughing.
- Will Forte – Joining Sudeikis for a hilarious musical duet inspired by their Saturday Night Live days.
- Madisen Ward and the Mama Bear – Bringing their Kansas City charm to the stage with heartfelt folk songs.
- Chance the Rapper – Appearing via a pre-recorded virtual performance, contributing to the event’s national reach.
- Surprise local acts – Including up-and-coming Kansas City musicians who received standing ovations from the hometown audience.
The evening balanced humor and emotion, featuring touching testimonials from recipients of Steps of Faith prosthetics between sets.
Steps of Faith: The Mission and Impact
The Steps of Faith Foundation, headquartered in Kansas City, provides prosthetic limbs to amputees who cannot afford them. Founded by Billy Brimblecom Jr. after he lost his left leg to cancer, the organization works with clinics nationwide to deliver custom prosthetic solutions at little to no cost to patients.
The foundation reports that an average prosthetic limb can cost between $2,500 and $5,000, a price out of reach for many. The money raised at Thundergong directly funds these life-changing devices.
In 2025 alone, Steps of Faith is on track to provide assistance to more than 400 individuals across the country. The impact goes beyond mobility—recipients often describe the experience as reclaiming their independence and identity.
Fundraising Results from 2025
Thundergong 2025 was another major success story. By the end of the night, the event raised over $950,000, marking one of the highest totals in its history.
That money will translate directly into hundreds of prosthetic limbs, rehabilitation programs, and ongoing patient support. Cumulatively, Thundergong and Steps of Faith have now surpassed $5 million in total fundraising since their partnership began.
Corporate sponsors, individual donors, and celebrity contributions all played vital roles in this achievement. The livestream audience, which saw record participation this year, contributed significantly to the donation surge.
The Heart of the Event: Stories That Inspire
One of Thundergong’s most emotional elements is the personal stories shared by prosthetic recipients. During the 2025 show, several beneficiaries appeared on stage to express their gratitude and share how Steps of Faith changed their lives.
One recipient spoke about returning to work and playing with his children again after receiving a new leg. Another described rediscovering her independence after years of limited mobility.
These testimonies remind audiences why Thundergong exists—and why it continues to grow stronger every year.
The Role of Music and Humor
Music and laughter are at the core of Thundergong’s success. Rather than presenting a traditional fundraiser, the event feels like a joyful festival of compassion. The mix of rock, folk, and comedy creates an uplifting atmosphere where generosity comes naturally.
Jason Sudeikis’s comedic timing keeps the tone light while emphasizing gratitude and purpose. The variety of performances ensures that the show appeals to all audiences—whether they come for the music, the comedy, or the cause.
Celebrity and Community Involvement
Thundergong thrives on collaboration. Every performer donates their time, and many return year after year. Previous events have featured stars such as Paul Rudd, Sheryl Crow, Wynonna Judd, The Get Up Kids, and members of The Roots.
Beyond celebrity participation, the Kansas City community plays a central role. Local restaurants, sponsors, and volunteers contribute resources to make the event possible. This partnership between artists and community organizations ensures that nearly every dollar raised goes directly toward prosthetic care.
Jason Sudeikis: A Hometown Hero
For Kansas City residents, Jason Sudeikis isn’t just a Hollywood celebrity—he’s a hometown hero. The Ted Lasso actor regularly uses his platform to support charitable initiatives rooted in the Midwest.
His success has never distanced him from his roots; instead, it has amplified his commitment to giving back. Thundergong exemplifies that spirit, showing how a single idea born between two friends can evolve into a nationwide movement of compassion.
Sudeikis’s reputation for kindness and authenticity shines through at every Thundergong performance. Fans often describe the event as a true reflection of his personality—optimistic, funny, and full of heart.
Thundergong’s Growing National Reach
While Thundergong began as a Kansas City tradition, it has steadily grown into a nationally recognized charity concert. The 2025 livestream reached viewers in more than 40 U.S. states, and online donations accounted for nearly one-third of total funds raised.
Clips from the show trended on social media platforms, featuring Sudeikis’s musical bits and heartfelt speeches. Fans across the country expressed admiration for how the event combines star power with genuine community impact.
The event’s organizers plan to continue expanding its digital presence in 2026, making it easier for remote viewers to participate and donate.
The Legacy of Thundergong
After nearly a decade, Thundergong has proven to be more than an annual concert—it’s a cultural movement that embodies kindness and creativity. The event has inspired other cities to explore similar music-driven charity models.
Its ongoing success lies in its consistency: a clear mission, a passionate host, and a loyal community of performers and supporters. Each November, the show reminds audiences that compassion can take center stage—and that even laughter can change lives.
Summary: Thundergong Jason Sudeikis 2025
The 2025 Thundergong Jason Sudeikis concert reaffirmed why this Kansas City tradition continues to capture hearts nationwide. With unforgettable performances, record-breaking donations, and moving stories of resilience, the event once again proved that generosity and joy can go hand in hand.
Jason Sudeikis’s leadership, Billy Brimblecom Jr.’s mission, and the dedication of thousands of supporters have made Thundergong one of America’s most meaningful charity events.
Did you attend Thundergong 2025 or watch it online? Share your favorite performance or moment in the comments below.