Bret Michaels Speaking Fee: $100,000 to $125,000

Bret Michaels is the lead vocalist and founding member of the iconic rock band Poison. Born Bret Michael Sychak on March 15, 1963, in Butler, Pennsylvania, he was diagnosed with type 1 diabetes at the age of six. Despite the challenges posed by his condition, Michaels pursued his passion for music, forming several bands before relocating to Los Angeles in the early 1980s. There, he and his bandmates rebranded as Poison and quickly gained traction on the Sunset Strip with their energetic performances and distinctive glam metal style. Poison's breakthrough came with their debut album, Look What the Cat Dragged In, which achieved platinum status. The band's success continued with subsequent albums, including Open Up and Say... Ahh! and Flesh & Blood, producing hits like "Every Rose Has Its Thorn" and "Talk Dirty to Me." These songs not only defined the band's career but also became anthems of the 1980s rock scene. Throughout their rise to fame, Michaels remained open about his diabetes, using his platform to raise awareness and advocate for others with the condition. Beyond his music career, Michaels has ventured into television and film. He starred in the reality series Rock of Love with Bret Michaels, which showcased his personal life and dating experiences. Additionally, he won the third season of NBC's The Celebrity Apprentice, raising significant funds for diabetes research. His philanthropic efforts are further exemplified through his Life Rocks Foundation, which supports various causes, including diabetes research, veterans' organizations, and animal welfare. Michaels' resilience has been tested by several health challenges, including a brain hemorrhage and heart surgery. Despite these setbacks, he has continued to perform and tour, maintaining a rigorous schedule that includes both solo projects and reunions with Poison. Looking ahead, he has expressed plans for a full-band reunion tour in 2025, promising fans a celebration of the band's greatest hits. Through his music, television appearances, and advocacy, Bret Michaels remains a prominent figure in the entertainment industry, known for his enduring spirit and commitment to his craft.