DETROIT (October 8, 2025) – The Detroit Auto Show today announced international superstar and multi-platinum recording artist Robin Thicke will headline the black-tie Charity Preview on Friday, Jan. 16, 2026, performing his chart-topping hits blended with Motown-inspired classics, providing an evening that resonates across generations. Benefiting six children’s charities in Southeast Michigan, the preeminent annual Motor City gala will be held at Huntington Place in Detroit.
Thicke (left) is a five-time GRAMMY Award nominee and diamond-selling performer, actor, entrepreneur and philanthropist. At the age of 21, Thicke had written and produced songs on over 20 gold and platinum albums, including Michael Jackson, Marc Anthony, Pink, Christina Aguilera, Usher, Jennifer Hudson and others. He released his critically acclaimed debut album, “A Beautiful World,” in 2003, followed by a succession of five gold and platinum selling albums. Recently, Thicke released his new single, “I Know What To Do.”
“We’re grateful for the widespread community support Charity Preview has received and are especially gratified to see the multi-generational audiences who attend,” said 2026 Detroit Auto Show Chairman Todd Szott. “It’s been 50 years since the first Charity Preview event, and attendees still generously rally around it, supporting children in our community while enjoying everything that personifies the spirit and innovation of the Motor City – from music to mobility.”
Legendary Detroit artist and cultural icon Trick Trick and Detroit native and “party starter” Maria “Ri Ri” Garcia, aka DJ Rimarkable, will round out the entertainment lineup at the 2026 Charity Preview.
Trick Trick, known as the voice of the streets and a champion for Detroit, will bring an unmistakable “only in Detroit” moment to the Charity Preview stage adding to the excitement and unpredictability of the night. DJ Rimarkable, known for redefining the world of “remix,” will dial up the energy from the moment the doors open at Charity Preview with a Detroit-inspired soundtrack.
“Fab Five” legend and NBA Star Jalen Rose will serve as Master of Ceremonies for the event, guiding the night of entertainment. A philanthropist who truly gives from the heart, Rose founded the Jalen Rose Leadership Academy, a public charter high school in his hometown of Detroit, and looks forward to spending the evening raising funds for the well-deserved charities.
“While Charity Preview is an incredible night with international superstars and local legends, it also provides the first look at the newest, most innovative vehicles in the world,” Detroit Auto Show Executive Director Sam Klemet said. “Attendees will be among the first to see, touch and even ride in the cars that are shaping the future of mobility. The evening truly reflects Detroit’s unique ability to combine automotive excellence, cultural pride and community impact.”
Tickets to Charity Preview go on sale Friday, Oct. 10, 2025, and are available at detroitautoshow.com. Tickets are $400 each or $700 a pair. Charity Preview is Presented by Auto Hauler Exchange, and WXYZ-TV Channel 7 is the Official Television Partner of the event.
Charity Preview Background
Charity Preview has raised more than $125 million for children’s charities since its inception in 1976. Beneficiaries for the 2026 Charity Preview include:
- Boys & Girls Clubs of Southeastern Michigan
- The Children’s Center
- The Children’s Foundation
- Detroit Auto Dealers Association Charitable Foundation Fund, a fund of the Community Foundation for Southeast Michigan
- Detroit PAL
- University of Michigan Health C.S. Mott Children’s Hospital
Schedule of Events for 2026 Charity Preview
- 5:30 p.m. – Ribbon-Cutting Ceremony in Huntington Place on Main Floor Stage with Jalen Rose, gala emcee
- 6 – 9 p.m. – Auto show floor open
- 6 p.m. – DJ Rimarkable set
- 7:45 p.m. – Trick Trick performance
- 8 p.m. – Robin Thicke performance
Stay up-to-date on the latest at detroitautoshow.com and follow the Detroit Auto Show on social media.
DATES FOR THE 2026 DETROIT AUTO SHOW:
• The Gallery, Tuesday, Jan. 13, 2026
• Media and Industry Days – including Mobility Global Forum, AutoMobili-D and media events – Wednesday, Jan. 14 and Thursday, Jan. 15, 2026
• Charity Preview, Friday, Jan. 16, 2026
• Public Show, Saturday, Jan. 17 through Sunday, Jan. 25, 2026
ABOUT THE DETROIT AUTO SHOW
The 2026 Detroit Auto Show returns Jan. 13 – 25, showcasing the latest in automotive design, technology, and innovation. As one of the most influential auto events in the world, the show is a dynamic stage for global mobility trends, groundbreaking vehicles, and immersive brand experiences. From hands-on activations to next-gen product reveals, the Detroit Auto Show invites attendees to experience the future of mobility in the heart of the Motor City.
