We acknowledge Australia’s Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples as the Traditional Custodians of the land on which we work and live and give respect to their Elders, past and present.

Read our Statement of Reflection
Skip to main content
National Film and Sound Archive
National Film and Sound Archive
National Film and Sound Archive

Perth Telethon: Skeletons by Stevie Wonder

1987

Perth Telethon: Skeletons by Stevie Wonder

1987

  • NFSA ID5BDKVWX0
  • TypeTelevision
  • MediumMoving Image
  • FormSpecial (a one off program for TV or Radio), Live performance (includes concert)
  • GenresVariety show, Children, Popular music
  • Year1987

The Channel 7 Perth Telethon (known mononymously as Telethon) is an annual Western Australian television marathon to raise funds for the health and well-being of children in the state. As of 2025, it is the highest donating telethon (per capita) in the world.

Running for 26 hours across metropolitan and regional Western Australia, it supports its beneficiaries through donations from individuals and corporations, driven by a strong community spirit. It was known for headline-grabbing music performances – as seen in this clip of American legend Stevie Wonder's 1987 Telethon guest spot.

The footage sees Wonder, his backup singers and his stylish band perform an energetic rendition of his single ‘Skeletons’ from his album Characters, released that year. It captures Wonder at a fascinating point in his career. By the late 1980s, his pioneering use of synths and electronic production had already helped reshape contemporary R&B, pop and the wider global music scene.

Along with offering a close-up look at Wonder’s extremely ‘80s bedazzled suit jacket, the clip reflects Telethon’s long-standing status as a major Australian television event that attracts local and international heavyweights.

The Channel 7 Perth Telethon (known mononymously as Telethon) is an annual Western Australian television marathon to raise funds for the health and well-being of children in the state. As of 2025, it is the highest donating telethon (per capita) in the world.

Running for 26 hours across metropolitan and regional Western Australia, it supports its beneficiaries through donations from individuals and corporations, driven by a strong community spirit. It was known for headline-grabbing music performances – as seen in this clip of American legend Stevie Wonder's 1987 Telethon guest spot.

The footage sees Wonder, his backup singers and his stylish band perform an energetic rendition of his single ‘Skeletons’ from his album Characters, released that year. It captures Wonder at a fascinating point in his career. By the late 1980s, his pioneering use of synths and electronic production had already helped reshape contemporary R&B, pop and the wider global music scene.

Along with offering a close-up look at Wonder’s extremely ‘80s bedazzled suit jacket, the clip reflects Telethon’s long-standing status as a major Australian television event that attracts local and international heavyweights.

  • Performer
    Stevie Wonder
Industry professional? Go Pro

Need to license this item? A/V professionals and researchers can shortlist licensing enquiries via our NFSA Pro catalogue search and membership.

Get started with PRO

Collections to explore

More in Stories+

Personalized your experience

Save, create and share

With NFSA Your Stuff