"Parks and Recreation" is returning to TV for one new episode at the month's end. The original cast, including Amy Poehler and Chris Pratt, will star on a special 30-minute episode to help raise money for Feeding America's Covid-19 Response Fund. It will air Thursday, April 30 on NBC at 8:30 p.m. ET.
The new episode will reflect the social distance efforts many are practicing across the nation as Leslie Knope (Poehler) tries to stay connected to her friends.
"Like a lot of other people, we were looking for ways to help and felt that bringing these characters back for a night could raise some money," said executive producer Michael Schur. "I sent a hopeful email to the cast and they all got back to me within 45 minutes. Our old 'Parks and Rec' team has put together one more 30-minute slice of (quarantined) Pawnee life and we hope everyone enjoys it. And donates!"
All of the series' original cast members will return including, Rashida Jones, Aziz Ansari, Nick Offerman, Aubrey Plaza, Chris Pratt, Adam Scott, Rob Lowe, Jim O'Heir, and Retta. According to a press release, "several guest stars from the Pawnee universe may pop in."
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In a video message, Poehler said the episode was filmed from the star's homes. According to Pratt, filming has already been completed.
"Parks and Recreation" ran for seven seasons on NBC from 2009 to 2015.
"In such uncertain times, we can't think of anyone better than Leslie Knope to unite our country with her unbridled enthusiasm and compassion," said Lisa Katz and Tracey Pakosta, co-presidents of scripted programming at NBC Entertainment in a statement. "A huge thank you to Mike Schur and the cast of 'Parks and Recreation' for putting this wonderful special together and bringing a smile to all our faces while raising money for such a worthwhile cause."
In addition to the fundraiser, State Farm and Subaru of America will each make matching donations of $150,000. That amount will be combined with donations from NBCUniversal as well "Parks and Recreation" writers, producers, and cast members. A total of $500,000 of donations will be matched through May 21, 2020.
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