Why the Walk of Fame Matters in Pop Culture
If you’ve ever strolled down Hollywood Boulevard, chances are your eyes drifted to the pink terrazzo and brass stars under your feet. That’s the Hollywood Walk of Fame—a stretch of sidewalk that celebrates the biggest names in film, music, television, radio, and even theater. For many visitors, spotting their favorite celebrity’s name on a star feels like bumping into a piece of pop culture history.
This isn’t just a tourist attraction. It’s a living storybook of entertainment—one that keeps growing year after year. But how did this tradition begin? Who gets chosen? And what really happens during a star ceremony? Let’s take a walk together.
History of the Hollywood Walk of Fame
The Hollywood Walk of Fame history started in the late 1950s as part of a beautification project. City leaders wanted to honor artists who shaped the entertainment industry while also boosting tourism. The first eight stars were unveiled in 1958 as a trial run, and by 1960, the Walk officially opened to the public.
Today, the Walk stretches over 15 blocks of Hollywood Boulevard and 3 blocks of Vine Street, with more than 2,700 stars embedded into the sidewalks. That’s a lot of terrazzo!
Interestingly, the first name ever placed was director Stanley Kramer, known for classics like Guess Who’s Coming to Dinner. Over time, the Walk has become not only a tribute to legends but also a global landmark, drawing millions of visitors each year.
How Are Celebrities Selected for a Star?
A question many fans ask is: How do you get a star on the Hollywood Walk of Fame? The process is more structured than people think. Here are the main steps:
- Nomination: Anyone (yes, even a fan club) can nominate a celebrity by filling out an application. The catch? The nominee or their management must agree to it.
- Selection Committee: The Hollywood Chamber of Commerce reviews the applications once a year. They pick only a limited number—around 20–24 honorees annually.
- Categories: Stars are awarded in five categories—film, television, music, radio, and live theater/performance.
And here’s something that surprises most people: receiving a star isn’t free. There’s a $75,000 fee (as of 2025) that covers installation, ceremony costs, and maintenance of the star.
The Star Nomination and Award Ceremony Process
Once a star is approved, the real fun begins—the Hollywood Walk of Fame ceremony. These public events often take place outside iconic venues like the TCL Chinese Theatre.
During the ceremony:
- Fans line up early to grab a good viewing spot.
- A host (often from the Chamber of Commerce) introduces the honoree.
- Friends, co-stars, or fellow artists may give heartfelt speeches.
- Finally, the celebrity reveals their star with that famous red carpet smile.
These ceremonies are emotional and often go viral because celebrities share personal stories about their journey to fame. It’s not unusual to see tears, laughter, and sometimes even surprise guests.
Famous Stars and Legends on the Walk of Fame
When people ask, What celebrities are on the Hollywood Walk of Fame?, the list feels endless. Some of the most iconic names include:
- Marilyn Monroe – timeless film star
- Michael Jackson – the King of Pop
- Walt Disney – the man who changed animation forever
- Oprah Winfrey – television and cultural icon
- Denzel Washington – acclaimed actor with decades of success
The Walk isn’t limited to U.S. talent. International stars like Shakira and Jackie Chan also shine on the boulevard, reflecting Hollywood’s global reach.
If you want a deeper dive into Los Angeles’ entertainment world, check out 10 must-visit attractions in Los Angeles. You’ll see how the Walk of Fame fits into the city’s broader cultural fabric.
Who Was the First Person Honored?
The truth is more complex. The original 1,550 stars were created and installed as a unit in 1960; no one star was officially “first”. However, Joanne Woodward gets the credit because she was among the eight prototype stars installed in 1958, and she was the first to be photographed with hers.
New and Upcoming Stars on the Walk of Fame
Every year, the Chamber of Commerce announces new stars on the Hollywood Walk of Fame. The schedule usually drops in summer, sparking buzz among fans. Recent additions have included both industry veterans and newer pop culture icons.
These ceremonies attract international attention. Fans often fly in from across the world just to watch their favorite singer, actor, or director kneel down beside their freshly unveiled star.
If you’re planning a trip to L.A., the Chamber’s website shares the Hollywood Walk of Fame ceremonies schedule, so you can time your visit to catch one live.
The Role of the Entertainment Industry on Hollywood Boulevard
The Walk of Fame isn’t just about sidewalk stars. It’s about Hollywood as a living, breathing entertainment hub. Nearby, you’ll find the TCL Chinese Theatre, the Dolby Theatre (home of the Oscars), and plenty of smaller venues showcasing new talent.
Visitors often make the mistake of rushing through Hollywood Boulevard, missing the deeper cultural gems. If you want to avoid common pitfalls, you might enjoy reading 5 Hollywood mistakes first-time visitors make. It’s a helpful guide if you’re planning your first trip.
A Living Legacy of Fame
The Hollywood Walk of Fame is more than just stars on the sidewalk. It’s a constantly evolving celebration of creativity, hard work, and the stories that shape our shared culture. From historic legends like Marilyn Monroe to modern-day icons like Jennifer Lopez, the Walk captures a century of entertainment history in a few square miles of Los Angeles pavement.
Next time you find yourself in L.A., slow down, look around, and maybe even snap a photo with your favorite star. Because while fame may fade, those terrazzo and brass emblems are built to last.
FAQs
What is the cost of a Hollywood Walk of Fame star?
As of 2025, the fee is about $75,000, which covers installation and upkeep.
How often are new stars added?
Around 20–24 new stars are added each year.
What happens during a Walk of Fame ceremony?
Celebrities give speeches, special guests attend, and the star is revealed in front of fans and media.
Who can be nominated for a star?
Anyone working in film, TV, music, radio, or theater can be nominated, but the star must accept the honor.
