Travolta donates money to tornado victims

John Travolta

John Travolta donated $15,000 to victims of a tornado in Florida at the premiere of his new biker film Wild Hogs on Friday night.

The actor presented a personal check to Mayor Max Pullen of Lady Lake, Florida, where a string of tornadoes killed 21 people in the area on Feb. 2.

Travolta, who has lived in nearby Ocala for four years, said, "These things happen in Florida and when they happen we all have to do something to help.

"I just felt the time was right. We're promoting a movie. I think the best movie openings and promotions are when you can do it for charity and help people. I live here. These are my people."

Pullen added, "This means a lot and helps lift the spirit of our people. When they know somebody as big a star as John Travolta cares about them, it makes a difference."

The screening of the biker comedy raised an additional $15,000 and Ocala Mayor Randy Ewers presented the star with a key to the city.

Wild Hogs, which features an ensemble cast including Tim Allen, William H. Macy and Martin Lawrence, also scored big at the box office over the weekend, taking in $38 million.