Music legend Neil Diamond was honored on October 11 with the Inspirational Lifetime Achievement Award at the 39th Annual Carousel Ball, held at the Hyatt Regency Denver at the Colorado Convention Center. The event, a major fundraiser for the Barbara Davis Center for Diabetes, raised more than $2 million to support type 1 diabetes research and care through the Children’s Diabetes Fund.
A Tribute to a Life of Music and Philanthropy
The award recognized Diamond for his decades of dedication to the cause, both as a performer and an advocate for clinical research. As an advisory board member for the Children’s Diabetes Foundation, Diamond’s support has spanned years, with multiple performances at Carousel Ball events in both Colorado and Los Angeles.
“I’ve been through it all now, and I’m still coming back for more,” Diamond said onstage. “I’m proud to be a champion for this cause and grateful to be part of a night that brings hope to so many. Thank you, thank you and thank you.”
A Night of Stars and Songs
Adding to the celebration was a special video tribute from actor Hugh Jackman, who stars alongside Kate Hudson in the upcoming film Song Sung Blue, a fictional story about a couple in a Neil Diamond tribute band.
“I’m thrilled you’re getting this award, because you are inspirational — not just through your music and creativity, but through your heart and your generosity,” Jackman shared. “As a performer myself, you inspire me every single day. The way you connect with audiences, the way you connect to your music, the authenticity of who you are—it’s everything to me.”
A Performance That Moved the Room
Though retired from full touring since 2018 after his Parkinson’s disease diagnosis, Diamond took to the stage once again for a heartfelt performance. He was joined by Nick Fradini, who portrays him in The Neil Diamond Musical: A Beautiful Noise. Together, they performed Diamond’s beloved 1969 hit “Sweet Caroline”, filling the room with joy and reverence.
The Carousel Ball is one of the nation’s premier charity galas and has drawn support from celebrities, philanthropists, and health advocates for decades. This year’s celebration not only honored Diamond’s storied career, but reaffirmed his legacy of compassion, strength, and service.