Canadian crooner Michael Bublé has partnered with the Florida Panthers to champion cancer research through a groundbreaking new initiative called “Panthers on the Prowl.” This philanthropic campaign blends public art with community spirit to support the American Cancer Society, aiming to raise at least $1 million through a unique, creative approach.
The initiative, launched in March, invites individuals, businesses, and community organizations to sponsor life-sized panther sculptures for a $5,000 donation. Sponsors then decorate these blank sculptures, transforming them into vivid, eye-catching art pieces that will be installed across public spaces in South Florida.
The campaign culminates in a special event, “Panthers on the Prowl Night,” scheduled during the Panthers’ 2025-26 NHL season. During this event, all the decorated panther sculptures will be showcased to celebrate the contributions and creativity of donors and artists alike.
A Deeply Personal Mission for Bublé
Michael Bublé’s involvement stems from a personal journey. In 2016, his young son Noah was diagnosed with hepatoblastoma, a rare form of liver cancer. After months of intensive treatment, Noah went into remission. The emotional toll of the experience had a lasting impact on Bublé and galvanized his commitment to cancer advocacy.
“Cancer touches all of us—my family, friends, yours, neighbors, everyone,” Bublé shared in a heartfelt statement. “I joined my buddy Bill Zito and the Florida Panthers and our entire NHL community because I want to be part of the solution.”
Bublé isn’t just lending his name; he’s actively participating, including decorating his own panther sculpture and engaging with the campaign on social media to amplify its reach.
Community Engagement Through Public Art
The “Panthers on the Prowl” project takes inspiration from public art movements like Chicago’s iconic “Cows on Parade.” These initiatives bring art into everyday spaces while supporting important causes. In South Florida, panther sculptures will serve as symbols of resilience, creativity, and hope.
Local artists, schools, and nonprofits are encouraged to collaborate with sponsors in designing the sculptures. The resulting installations promise to create a colorful trail of awareness and philanthropy stretching through urban centers, parks, and public venues.
In doing so, the initiative not only supports cancer research but also enlivens public spaces and fosters community pride.
Broad Support from Celebrities and Community Leaders
Bublé isn’t the only celebrity backing the project. NFL stars and South Florida natives Nick and Joey Bosa have also joined the campaign. The brothers are sponsoring and helping design a sculpture that reflects their roots and commitment to giving back.
Internationally acclaimed artist Romero Britto is another high-profile supporter. Britto will design a one-of-a-kind sculpture set to be auctioned at the culmination of the campaign. Proceeds from the auction will further boost donations to the American Cancer Society.
The campaign has drawn praise from civic leaders, business owners, and philanthropists who see it as a model for community-driven fundraising.
How to Get Involved
Participation in “Panthers on the Prowl” is open to anyone willing to make a $5,000 donation. The campaign provides each sponsor with a blank sculpture, guidance on decoration, and the opportunity to collaborate with local artists or youth groups.
Each sculpture will be placed in a public location, complete with plaques recognizing the donor and artist, making it both a charitable contribution and a lasting tribute.
Interested individuals and organizations can learn more and sign up through the Florida Panthers’ official community outreach website. The team is also offering support to first-time sponsors and artists to ensure a successful and impactful experience.
A Vision for the Future
“Panthers on the Prowl” is more than a fundraising effort; it’s a celebration of life, resilience, and community. By combining the reach of a major sports franchise with the universal appeal of art and the urgency of cancer research, the initiative hopes to leave a lasting legacy.
For Bublé, the campaign is a way to turn personal hardship into collective hope. “This is about giving people the chance to make a difference in a way that’s creative and meaningful,” he said. “Together, we can save lives and inspire change.”
