James Franco honoured for HIV-AIDS advocacy

James Franco has received a special tribute from the non-profit group amfAR in honour of his advocacy for HIV-AIDS research.

The 127 Hours actor was recognised alongside Michael Kors at amfAR's Inspiration Gala in New York City earlier this week.

Franco admitted to The Insider before the celebration got under way that he was unsure if he was worthy of the tribute.

"I'm still a little unsure why I'm being honoured, but I'm glad that I'm here and I'm glad that I can help. It's certainly a cause that I believe in," he said.

Franco added: "I've tried to do fundraisers and raise money for causes I believe in. I know how hard it is. So when you have something… with this kind of energy behind it and for such a good cause, I'm incredibly impressed and [it feels] great to be a part of it."

Ke$ha, who was also on hand for the Inspiration Gala, expressed excitement to be involved with an organisation that seeks to eradicate one of the world's deadliest diseases.

"I know that over 33 million people in the world live with HIV or AIDS and it's amazing to just support amfAR tonight," the 'Blow' singer said.

amfAR was founded in 1985 by several of the world's leading HIV-AIDs researchers and actress Elizabeth Taylor to advance treatment of the disease and push for public policy changes to help those afflicted.

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Watch James Franco and Ke$ha discuss the importance of HIV-AIDS research below: