International Celebrities Make History on Hollywood Walk of Fame

The Hollywood Walk of Fame is set to welcome 35 new celebrities, including several international stars, as part of the Class of 2026. Among them are renowned singer-songwriter Angelique Kidjo and actress Deepika Padukone, who are making history by becoming the first Black African and Indian actress, respectively, to receive the prestigious honor. Kidjo, a five-time Grammy winner, has spent over four decades blending West African music with global styles, while Padukone, known for her successful Bollywood films, has captured the hearts of fans worldwide. Their induction marks a significant milestone for Africa and India, as they join the likes of South African Charlize Theron and Indian actor Sabu Dastagir, who was inducted into the Walk of Fame in 1960.

Key Takeaways:

• Angelique Kidjo is the first Black African to receive a star on the Hollywood Walk of Fame, joining South African Charlize Theron as the only other celebrity from Africa on the famous sidewalk.
• Deepika Padukone is the first Indian actress to receive a star, following in the footsteps of Sabu Dastagir, who made his Hollywood debut in the 1930s and was the first Indian actor to be inducted into the Walk of Fame in 1960.
• Kidjo and Padukone join a list of 35 new celebrities, including Australian pop group Air Supply, Brazilian musician Paulinho da Costa, Mexican entertainer Lucero, and British celebrity chef Gordon Ramsay.
• The Hollywood Walk of Fame has over 2,800 stars, with an average of two new stars added per month.
• Anyone can nominate their favorite celebrity to be considered for a star on the Walk of Fame.
• The Hollywood Chamber of Commerce administers the Walk of Fame on behalf of the city of Los Angeles.

Statistics:

• Time period: The Hollywood Walk of Fame has been immortalizing celebrities since the 1950s.
• Number of stars: Over 2,800 stars are currently on the Walk of Fame.
• Average number of new stars added per month: 2 stars.
• Timeframe for recipients to schedule induction ceremonies: 2 years.
• Number of new celebrities: 35.
• Percentage of international celebrities: Air Supply (Australia), Paulinho da Costa (Brazil), Lucero (Mexico), Lea Salonga (Filipino), Emily Blunt (Britain), Marion Cotillard (France), Rachel McAdams (Canada), and Franco Nero (Italy) are among the 35 new celebrities.

Sources:

• [The Hollywood Walk of Fame]
• [Billboard]