blog - Hollywood Walk of Fame

01 Dec 2022

Lily Weiner Live Performance, Recent ceremony Permalink

Billy Porter

Lily Weiner December 1, 2022

WHO | HONOREE Billy Porter

EMCEE

Lupita Sanchez Cornejo, Chair of the Hollywood Chamber of Commerce

GUEST SPEAKERS Porter’s sister Mary Martha Ford and his manager Bill Butler

WHAT Dedication of the 2,741st star on the Hollywood Walk of Fame

WHEN Thursday, December 1, at 11:30 a.m. PT

WHERE 6201 Hollywood Boulevard, Hollywood, CA 90028

Actor Billy Porter was honored today with the 2,741st star on the Hollywood Walk of Fame in the category of Live Performance/Live Theatre. The star was dedicated at 6201 Hollywood Boulevard near the Pantages Theatre and East Town.

The Hollywood Chamber of Commerce has proudly hosted the globally iconic Hollywood Walk of Fame since 1960. The Chamber exists to transform business and improve lives. Through the Walk of Fame, the Chamber celebrates the business that transforms us all – the business of entertainment. Entertainment is a unique blend of art and enterprise; elevating and inspiring us all.

ABOUT OUR HONOREE

“We are thrilled to be honoring award-winning actor Billy Porter with a star on the Hollywood Walk of Fame. His performances leave everyone wanting more!” stated Walk of Fame Producer Ana Martinez. “Billy is known for his amazing attire and I cannot wait to see what he will be wearing on his special day,” she added.

Joining emcee Lupita Sanchez Cornejo for the star unveiling were Porter’s sister Mary Martha Ford and his long-time manager Bill Butler.

Billy Porter is an Emmy, Tony and Grammy Award-winning, and Golden Globe-nominated, actor, singer, director, composer, and playwright from Pittsburgh, PA.

His electric portrayal of ‘Pray Tell’ in the FX’s breakthrough series “Pose,” earned him the Emmy Award for Outstanding Lead Actor in a Drama Series, as well as Golden Globe, Critics’ Choice Award, and Television Critics Association nominations. He most recently earned a third Emmy nomination for Outstanding Lead Actor in a Drama Series for this role. He was also the recipient of the Dorian Award for TV Performance of the Year from GALECA: The Society of LGBTQ Entertainment Critics, as well as nominated for a Black Reel Award for Outstanding Actor.

Previously, Porter starred in the eighth season of Ryan Murphy’s acclaimed series “American Horror Story: Apocalypse” as ‘Behold Chablis’, HBO Max’s “That Damn Michael Che,” the second season of CBS All Access’ “The Twilight Zone,” and narrating HBO Max’s four-part docu-series “Equal”.

On screen, he recently starred in Amazon Prime’s “Cinderella” re-make as the Fab G, alongside Camila Cabello and Idina Menzel. Porter also recently appeared in the Paramount Players comedy “Like a Boss,” alongside Tiffany Haddish, Rose Byrne and Salma Hayek, and Baz Luhrman’s “The Get Down,” starring Justice Smith, Shameik Moore and Herizen Guardiola. His other television credits include “Law & Order: Special Victims Unit,” “The Big C,” “Law & Order,” “Shake, Rattle and Roll: An American Love Story” and “Another World.” Under the direction of Barry Levinson, Porter starred in The Humbling, alongside Al Pacino and Greta Gerwig. His other film credits include Noel, The Broken Hearts Club: A Romantic Comedy, Intern, Anastasia and Twisted.

Upcoming, he will star in Our Son alongside Luke Evans, direct a queer teen comedy from Gabrielle Union’s I’ll Have Another Productions, titled To Be Real, and direct an episode of Fox’s anthology series Accused. His feature directorial debut Anything’s Possible, a coming-of age film written by Ximena García Lecuona, was released on July 22nd on Amazon Prime Video.

A veteran of the theatre, Porter most previously reprised his role as ‘Lola’ in the smash hit Broadway musical Kinky Boots, for which he won the 2013 Drama Desk, Outer Critics Circle, and Tony Awards for Best Actor in a Musical, as well as a Grammy Award for Best Musical Theatre Album. Other Broadway acting credits include the Tony nominated Broadway musical, Shuffle Along, directed by George C. Wolfe. Miss Saigon, Five Guys Named Moe, Grease, Smokey Joe’s Café and Dreamgirls (20^th Anniversary Broadway Concert and LA Ovation Award). He won his second Tony Award in 2022 for “Best Musical” as a producer on A Strange Loop.

As a recording artist, Porter most recently released his single Stranger Things under his new record deal with Island Records (UK) and Republic Records (US). He also recently released Finally Ready with The Shapeshifters in June 2020, as well as For What It’s Worth in April 2020 to motivate potential voters. In June 2019, he released his single Love Yourself, in support of Pride Month and the 50^th Anniversary of Stonewall. His most recent album, The Soul of Richard Rodgers, was released in 2017 on Sony Masterworks. His solo albums include his first CD, Untitled, on A&M records and his sophomore album, At the Corner of Broadway + Soul – LIVE. Additionally, Billy’s Back on Broadway was released in 2014. Featuring ten classics made famous on the Great White Way that focus on inspiration, empowerment and hope, the album’s title (and cover art) is a nod to Sammy Davis, Jr.’s recording Sammy’s Back on Broadway.

Additionally, Porter’s voice can be heard on the albums A Very Rosie Christmas, Jim Brickman’s Destiny (top ten AC hit), Grease (revival cast album), Adam Guettel’s Myths & Hymns, Gershwin and Sondheim Benefit Albums, Hercules (Disney) and Anastasia (Warner Bros.), Liz Callaway – The Story Goes On, Alvin Ailey/Revelations, Broadway Cares Home For The Holidays, Dreamgirls in Concert, HAIR (Actor’s Fund Benefit recording), Great Joy: A Gospel Christmas (with The Broadway Inspirational Voices) and Love Rocks.

His original song Time has been featured twice on the mega-hit television series “So You Think You Can Dance” as well as the 2011 Miss America Pageant. Porter’s concerts credits include opening act for Rosie O’Donnell and Aretha Franklin, Carnegie Hall, John McDaniel and the St. Louis Symphony Orchestra, as well as The Buffalo Philharmonic, Peter Nero and The Philly Pops, soloist for President Bill Clinton and various benefits throughout the U.S.

As a director, Porter’s work includes the The Purists, as well as revivals of George C. Wolf’s plays, The Colored Museum and Top Dog/Underdog at the prestigious Huntington Theater. In addition, Porter has also directed a critically acclaimed recreation of The Wiz and conceived a musical revue entitled Signed, Sealed, Delivered: The Music of Stevie Wonder, which starred Chaka Khan and ran at The Venetian Hotel in Las Vegas in the spring of 2002.

Furthermore, Porter conceived and directed Being Alive, which made its world premiere in the summer of 2007 at The Westport Country Playhouse and immediately transferred to The Philadelphia Theatre Company, inaugurating their new Suzanne Roberts Theatre.

His additional directing credits include Twilight In Manchego, Once On This Island (NAACP Theatre Award Winner), The Soul of Richard Rodgers, Five Guys Named Moe, Altar Boyz, RENT (Associate Director: Off-Broadway Revival) and Wicked Summer Nights Concert Series. Porter made his London directorial debut in the fall of 2009 with Olivier Award Nominee Patina Miller at Live in the Delfont Room. Primary Stages presented the highly successful World Premiere of While I Yet Live, which he wrote, that played at the off Broadway Duke Theater.

Porter released his first literary project, “Unprotected,” in October 2021, which was published by Abrams Press. The memoir is described as ‘a powerful and revealing autobiography about race, sexuality, art, and healing.’

Porter is also a graduate of The Professional Program in Screenwriting at UCLA and is an adjunct professor at his alma mater Carnegie Mellon University’s School Of Drama, where he has directed productions of Company and Letters From ‘Nam. Additionally, Porter has received an honorary doctorate from Washington & Jefferson College.

In 2017, Porter was the recipient of the GLAAD Vito Russo Award, an award presented to an openly LGBT media professional who has made a significant difference in promoting equality for the LGBT community.

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11 Nov 2022

Lily Weiner Live Performance, Recent ceremony Permalink

Angelica Vale

Lily Weiner November 11, 2022

WHO | HONOREE Angelica Vale

EMCEE Lupita Sanchez Cornejo, Chair of the Hollywood Chamber of Commerce

GUEST SPEAKERS Angelica Maria, Jaime Camil, Mayor Eric Garcetti and many more surprises

WHAT Dedication of the 2,739th star on the Hollywood Walk of Fame

WHEN Thursday, November 10, at 3:00 PM PT (6:00 PM ET)

WHERE 7060 Hollywood Boulevard, Hollywood, CA 90028

On November 10, at 3:00 p.m. theater, TV/film actress and radio personality Angelica Vale was honored with the 2,739th star on the Hollywood Walk of Fame in the category of Live Theatre/Live Performance. The star is located at 7060 Hollywood Boulevard near the star of her legendary mother Angelica Maria.

ABOUT OUR HONOREE

“This ceremony will be very special and full of surprises. One thing that is not a surprise is that Angelica’s star is near the star of her beloved mother, actress Angelica Maria, stated Walk of Fame Producer Ana Martinez. “We are proud to add Angelica Vale to this iconic landmark where her fans can visit and pay tribute to her!” she added.

Joining emcee Lupita Sanchez Cornejo for the star unveiling will be Angelica Maria, Jaime Camil, Los Angeles Mayor Eric Garcetti and many more star surprises!

Angelica Vale is the “Latina Queen of Stage Comedy” and regarded as the Tina Fey and Carole Burnett of Spanish language entertainment. La Vale is the most recognized Mexican comedic actress and a true triple threat on a live stage. She’s a critically acclaimed live-theatre performer with an extensive career in film, television, radio and music that spans more than four very active decades. Her acting career begun as an infant tugging at the skirt of her legendary mother while live on stage.

Her mother is a Hollywood Walk of Famer herself and the famously regarded “Sweetheart of Mexico” (Novia de Mexico) Angelica Maria. Vale is synonymous with live musical stage comedy and one of the most recognizable performers with over 500 live theater productions and thousands of hours on stage. In 2017, Vale was the principal voice character (Mama Imelda) on the Spanish language version of the Disney animated Oscar winning hit, “Coco.”

Angelica solidified her worldwide fame as the lead actress on the wildly successful Televisa-Univision Spanish language version of the romantic comedy series, “Ugly Betty,” which set world-wide audience records. Today, she continues her passion for engaging audiences by hosting her own 5-hour morning radio show “La Vale Show” on the full-market FM station, CALI 93.9 in Los Angeles, California. Angelica was among the few broadcasters who, everyday, delivered a live studio call-in show while defying her own well-being at the height of the COVID 19 U.S. Pandemic. For this work she received the coveted “Gracie award” for outstanding achievement in radio.

Angelica is also the main host of HBO Max “Bake Off” Mexico returning for a second season. She’s also the head judge and character coach of Univision’s reality talent competition “Tu Cara Me Suena” returning for season 3 this spring. All these platforms give Angelica a live-stage to project her love for theatrical performance.

Angelica has participated in more than 300 TV programs in the US; 20 feature films; 25 music albums; and 30 stage productions to include the Off-Broadway run of the critically acclaimed, “Vagina Monologues.”

Vale is a proud Southern California resident, a social media influencer with over 8 million combined followers; a tireless activist on Mayor Garcetti’s community outreach team; a wife of an Iraq War Veteran, and the mother of two little Angelenos and fluent in Spanish, English and French.

Vale has received many accolades including the 2022 Gracie® Award for outstanding achievement in media, Medallas de Cortez 2022 as radio personality of the Year, People En Español, “25 Mujeres Mas Poderosas,” and many, many more.

Angelica is an active supporter of the Hollywood charity community and has been active on various local, national and international campaigns focused on minority youth education and economic empowerment.

03 Nov 2022

Lily Weiner Recent ceremony, Recording Permalink

Salt-N-Pepa

Lily Weiner November 3, 2022

WHO | HONOREE Salt-N-Pepa
EMCEE Lupita Sanchez Cornejo, Chair of the Hollywood Chamber of Commerce
GUEST SPEAKERS MC Lyte and Roxanne Shante
WHAT Dedication of the 2,738th star on the Hollywood Walk of Fame
WHEN Friday, November 4, at 11:30 a.m. PT
WHERE 6212 Hollywood Boulevard, adjacent to Amoeba Music
WATCH LIVE The event will be streamed live exclusively at walkoffame.com

On Friday, November 4, 2023. Salt-N-Pepa were honored with the 2,738th star on the Hollywood Walk of Fame in the category of Recording. The star is located at 6212 Hollywood Boulevard adjacent to Amoeba Music.

ABOUT OUR HONOREES
“This upcoming star ceremony honoring Hip-Hop pioneers Salt-N-Pepa will honor the amazing 80s music we all love and so many grew up with!” stated Walk of Fame Producer Ana Martinez. “We’re placing these ladies of Hip Hop royalty adjacent to Amoeba Music and right next to the Walk of Fame star of another Queen of Hip Hop, Missy Elliott!” she added.

Joining emcee Lupita Sanchez Cornejo for the star unveiling were MC Lyte and Roxanne Shante. A special guest appearance was made by DJ Spinderella who also posed for photos with Salt-N-Pepa. Spin also received a replica plaque for her work in the group when it was first founded.

The duo of Cheryl “Salt” James and Sandra “Pepa” Denton have pushed it real good as a trailblazing duo that changed the face of music for women in hip-hop. Known as the First Ladies of Hip-Hop, Salt-n-Pepa were credited for bringing fun, fashion, and femininity to hip hop; their unique and authentic style made them relatable. Salt-n-Pepa grew up in different boroughs in New York City. Pepa, who was born in Jamaica, lived in St. Alban, Queens, while Salt resided in Bushwick, Brooklyn.

Their musical bond began to take shape when they met as students at Queensborough Community College in Bayside, Queens, where they created a diss track that became a local hit. Soon after Deidra “Spinderella” Roper joined the duo as their official DJ. Raised in Brooklyn, NY and only 16 at the time. Spinderella is considered the most celebrated and iconic female DJ in Hip-Hop.

With a new name and new buzz, Salt-N-Pepa landed a deal to make 1986’s Hot, Cool & Vicious, their debut LP that more than lived up to that spicy title. Propelled by “Push It,” their breakout hit on the pop charts, the album went platinum. Salt-N-Pepa proved that they were more than just the flavor of the moment with 1988’s A Salt with a Deadly Pepa, which is certified platinum.

The ladies really began to shake things up lyrically on their third album, 1990’s Blacks’ Magic. Their music had a message, with empowering anthems like “Expression,” “Independent” and “Let’s Talk About Sex.” Now they were speaking for—and to—women in a way that was bigger than a dope beat and a fly flow. Salt-N-Pepa only got bigger with 1993’s Very Necessary, which true to its title, proved to be an essential album. Boasting two Top 5 hits— “Shoop” and “Whatta Man”, a killer collaboration with En Vogue — the LP went platinum five times over. But it was “None of Your Business” that won them Grammy gold, for Best Rap Performance by a Duo or Group, in 1995.

Now the pioneering ladies are living legends who get to see their legacy playing out while they’re very much still making moves. And what a lofty list of accomplishments Salt-N-Pepa has had. They became the first female rap act to have an album go gold and then platinum. They became, along with Queen Latifah, the first female MCs to win a Grammy. They have become international superstars, taking hip-hop from Russia to Australia. And they still have the best-selling album of all time by any female rap artists: their 1993 blockbuster Very Necessary.

For philanthropy, Salt supports Rock The Bells and Pep supports St. Jude.

12 Oct 2022

Lily Weiner Recent ceremony, Recording Permalink

Jefferson Airplane

Lily Weiner October 12, 2022

WHO | HONOREE Jefferson Airplane

EMCEE Lupita Sanchez Cornejo, Chair of the Hollywood Chamber of Commerce

GUEST SPEAKERS John Densmore of The Doors

WHAT Dedication of the 2,737th star on the Hollywood Walk of Fame

WHEN Thursday, October 13, at 11:30 AM PT in front of Musician’s Institute

WHERE 6752 Hollywood Boulevard, Hollywood, CA 90028

WATCH LIVE The event will be streamed live exclusively at walkoffame.com

Jefferson Airplane was honored today with the 2,737th star on the Hollywood Walk of Fame in the category of Recording. The star was dedicated at 6752 Hollywood Boulevard in front of The Musician’s Institute. Accepting the star on behalf of the band were Grace Slick, Jack Casady, and Jorma Kaukonen.

ABOUT OUR HONOREES

“This ceremony will bring many great memories to those with a love for music of the 60s and 70s,” stated Walk of Fame Producer Ana Martinez. “We are proud to add this iconic psychedelic rock band to the Hollywood Walk of Fame and to place their star in front of Musician’s Institute makes for a special added touch,” she added.

Joining emcee Lupita Sanchez Cornejo for the star unveiling was John Densmore of The Doors.

Jefferson Airplane rose to fame in the San Francisco psychedelic rock scene, where they pioneered the music which defined the 1960s and embodied the spirit of the counterculture movement. With their seven studio albums, five of which went gold, two live LPs and two top 10 singles, “White Rabbit” and “Somebody to Love,” Jefferson Airplane solidified their legacy as one of the most prolific and vital groups from the era.

From October 1966 to February 1970, the classic Airplane lineup consisted of Marty Balin (vocals), Paul Kantner (guitar, vocals), Grace Slick (vocals), Jorma Kaukonen (lead guitar, vocals), Jack Casady (bass) and Spencer Dryden (drums).

The band started out playing in San Francisco, highlighted by their breakout at Bill Graham’s first legendary show at the Fillmore Auditorium. Graham would later become the group’s manager for a period and take them touring across the country.

The group’s debut LP, entitled Jefferson Airplane Takes Off, was released in August of 1966 and featured Signe Toly Anderson on lead vocals. Their second LP, entitled Surrealistic Pillow, with Slick on lead vocals was released in February of 1967. This LP assisted in launching the group to international fame with hit singles such as “White Rabbit” and “Somebody to Love” both hitting Top 10 on the Billboard chart.

In the following years the band released their third and fourth albums, After Bathing at Baxter’s and Crown of Creation, demonstrating a shift in their musical approach towards an emphasis on experimentation and a heavier sound. During this time they co-headlined a tour with The Doors in Europe in the summer of 1968 and were photographed for the cover of Life Magazine.

In August of 1969 at 7:00 am on a Sunday morning, Jefferson Airplane delivered an electric performance at Woodstock after waiting 17 hours to play. When they finally got onstage, Slick introduced the band’s performance as “morning maniac music”. This performance was one of many Jefferson Airplane festival appearances over the years. The group also performed at the Berkeley Folk Festival, Monterey Jazz Festival, Monterey International Pop Festival, and Altamont over the span of their time together.

Jefferson Airplane went on to release many more successful albums, compilations, and live albums over the years. The band was inducted into the Rock & Roll Hall of Fame in 1996 and was presented with a Grammy Lifetime Achievement Award in 2016.

ABOUT THE HOLLYWOOD CHAMBER’S WALK OF FAME

The Hollywood Walk of Fame is a celebration of art, entertainment, and all things Hollywood. Star ceremonies are broadcast worldwide, connecting fans with their favorite artists. The Hollywood Chamber of Commerce administers the Walk of Fame on behalf of the City of Los Angeles. Honorees are selected by a committee of their peers. Sponsors fund the star, the ceremony and the maintenance of the legendary attraction. The Walk of Fame is free to all. To learn more and find your favorite stars, visit walkoffame.com.

26 Sep 2022

Lily Weiner Live Performance, Recent ceremony Permalink

Sarah Brightman

Lily Weiner September 26, 2022

WHO | HONOREE Sarah Brightman

EMCEE Lupita Sanchez Cornejo, Chair of the Hollywood Chamber of Commerce

GUEST SPEAKERS Kristin Chenoweth, Emilie Kouatchou and Anthony Van Laast

WHAT Dedication of the 2,736th star on the Hollywood Walk of Fame

WHEN Thursday, October 6, 2022, at 11:30 AM PT

WHERE 6243 Hollywood Boulevard, Hollywood, CA 90028

WATCH LIVE The event will be streamed live exclusively at walkoffame.com

Global recording artist, Sarah Brightman was honored today with the 2,736th star on the Hollywood Walk of Fame. The star is located at 6243 Hollywood Boulevard in front of The Pantages Theatre. Brightman was awarded her star in the category of Live Theatre/Live Performance.

ABOUT OUR HONOREE

“British import and singing superstar Sarah Brightman has the voice of an angel” stated Ana Martinez, Producer of the Hollywood Walk of Fame. “She has been entertaining the world with her unique voice for many years and we are thrilled to add her name to our iconic Hollywood Walk of Fame.” In celebration of an amazing career in theatre, we thought it would be fitting to place Sarah’s star in front of another icon, Hollywood’s Pantages Theatre,” added Martinez.

Joining emcee Lupita Sanchez Cornejo for the star unveiling were Emilie Kouatchou and Anthony Van Laast and Walk of Famer Kristin Chenowith.

International singing superstar, Sarah Brightman is the world’s biggest-selling Soprano. She pioneered the classical crossover music movement and is famed for possessing a vocal range of over 3 octaves. Sarah is the only artist to have simultaneously

topped the Billboard dance and classical music charts. Her voice has rung out from theatres, arenas, cathedrals, world heritage centers and Olympic stadiums, bringing to life some of the world’s most beautiful music. Sarah’s work transcends any specific musical genre, synthesizing many influences and inspirations into a unique sound and vision. Today, she remains among the world’s most prominent performers, with global sales of 30 million units having received more than 180 gold and platinum awards in over 40 countries.

Born and raised in Berkhamsted, England, Sarah began singing and dancing at the age of three. She began her career as a member of the television dance troupe, Hot Gossip and released several successful disco hit singles as a solo performer. In 1981 Sarah made her West End musical theatre debut in Cats and met composer Andrew Lloyd Webber. She went on to star in several Broadway musicals, including the world-renowned The Phantom of the Opera on both West End and Broadway stages which is celebrating its 35^th anniversary and where she originated the role of Christine Daaé. In 1987, the Original London Cast Album of the musical was released in CD format and sold over 40 million copies worldwide, making it the biggest-selling cast album of all time. After many successful years on the musical stage Brightman resumed her solo recording career, releasing over 15 solo albums, many debuting at #1 on the Classical and Crossover Billboard charts and all supported by extensive and lavish world tours.

Sarah has been invited to perform at high-profile prestigious events around the world including the 2007 Concert for Diana and The Kennedy Center Honors. Sarah is the first artist to have been invited to perform the theme song at the Olympic Games on two occasions. The first was at the 1992 Barcelona Olympic Games where she sang “Amigos Para Siempre” with the Spanish tenor Jose Carreras with an estimated global audience of a billion people. Sixteen years later in Beijing, this time with Chinese singer Liu Huan, Sarah performed the song “You and Me” to an estimated 4 billion people worldwide.

Driven by passion and purpose, and a willingness to push limits as an artist Sarah, continues to grow and expand her career to this day. In 2012, she accepted the UNESCO nomination to be an “Artist for Peace” Ambassador and actively engaged in UNESCO World Heritage Centre endeavors. In 2020, she renewed her commitment with UNESCO and continues to promote awareness on the Organization’s action and programmes, in particular its action in favour of culture, heritage and to achieve sustainable tourism.

In addition to Sarah’s role as a Challenger Learning Center Advisory Board Member (2013), a Virgin Unite youth STEM scholarship benefactor (2012-2016), Brightman continues to advocate to advance education and empower the role of girls and women in science and technology to help close the gender gap in the STEM (Science, Technology, Engineering and Mathematics) fields. In July 2015, the inaugural Andrew Lloyd Webber Foundation Sarah Brightman Music Scholarships were also awarded to their first recipients. The scholarships will support students in their postgraduate studies at the Royal Northern College of Music on the two-year Master of Music Programme.

Sarah has also been recognized for her outstanding contribution to music and theatre with an Honorary Doctor of Arts (Hon DArt), in addition to being bestowed the prestigious Italian decoration ‘Cavaliere’ in the Ordine al Merito della Repubblica Italiana, by the Consul General of Italy, Francesco Genuardi.

During the 2021 holiday season, Sarah took her unforgettable Christmas spectacle “A Christmas Symphony” on the road for the very first time and received rave reviews from both critics and fans alike. Together with orchestra and choir, Sarah engaged in a US tour which began on November 26^th and ended in New Orleans, LA on December 21^st, 2021. Now an annual tradition, this incredible holiday tour will travel international to Japan and SEA in November/December of 2022.

On October 12, 14^th and 15^th of 2022, Sarah will entertain her “first exclusive Las Vegas engagement” at The Venetian Resort. With this being her ONLY U.S. date of the year, fans can travel from around the world to be enchanted by “A Starlight Symphony…An Evening with Sarah Brightman.” This beautiful new show will feature Sarah performing many of her greatest hits with orchestra, choir and special guest Japanese composer Yoshiki, alongside other guest performers. Following the engagement, “A Starlight Symphony” will travel to Mexico for several concert dates including Mexico City.

26 Sep 2022

Lily Weiner Recent ceremony, Recording Permalink

“Mama” Cass Elliot

Lily Weiner September 26, 2022

WHO | HONOREE “Mama” Cass Elliot

EMCEE Lupita Sanchez Cornejo, Chair of the Hollywood Chamber of Commerce

GUEST SPEAKERS Michelle Phillips, John Sebastian, Owen Elliot-Kugell, and Leah Kunkel

WHAT Dedication of the 2,735th star on the Hollywood Walk of Fame

WHEN Monday, October 3, at 11:30 AM PT

WHERE 7065 Hollywood Boulevard, Hollywood, CA 90028

Singer “Mama” Cass Elliot was honored posthumously today with the 2,735th star on the Hollywood Walk of Fame on October 3, at 11:30 a.m. Star is located at 7065 Hollywood Boulevard. Elliot was awarded the star in the category of Recording.

ABOUT OUR HONOREES

“Mama” Cass Elliot, a Rock and Roll Hall of Famer, was a staple during the 60’s and 70’s. Her music spoke to the people and her songs have become some of the most beloved of all time.” Stated Walk of Fame Producer, Ana Martinez. “We are proud to add this exemplary talent to our Walk of Fame.” added Martinez.

Joining emcee Lupita Sanchez Cornejo for the star unveiling were Michelle Phillips and John Sebastian. The star was accepted on behalf of “Mama” Cass by her daughter, Owen Elliot-Kugell and Elliot’s sister, Leah Kunkel. This special ceremony was sponsored by City National Bank.

Cass Elliot, best known as “Mama Cass” of the pop-rock group The Mamas & the Papas, was a standout talent of the 1960’s and 70’s. A pioneer pop-culture feminist and icon, she was one of the greatest singers of her generation, and the powerhouse voice behind hit songs “California Dreamin’”, “Monday, Monday”, and “Dream a Little Dream of Me” – songs which defined a new musical era by blending the genres of folk, rock, and pop into a trademark sound.

Born Ellen Naomi Cohen on September 19^th, 1941, Cass Elliot developed an impeccable intuition for great music. Finding her way through the 60’s folk-rock scene, Cass would go on to become one of the defining voices of the counterculture movement, and later, a beloved fixture on American television.

Cass’s first love was the theater. However, in 1962, she traded show tunes for folk songs and moved to Washington D.C., where she found her place as the bold female harmony in the folk group The Big 3. Her enduring creativity followed her across her subsequent career with the Mugwumps, when at the height of Beatlemania, their record label wanted to cut her out of the group. Instead of dumping her, the group decided to disband rather than leave their cornerstone vocalist behind. By 1964, Cass had earned her place as a member of The New Journeymen, where she banded together with John and Michelle Phillips, and former Mugwumps vocalist Denny Doherty. Once Cass had joined, they renamed themselves The Mamas & the Papas.

The Mamas & the Papas were flung into the spotlight, receiving rapid commercial success following the release of “California Dreamin’”, their first single, in late 1965. The song ended up becoming the #1 Billboard year-end Hot 100 single of 1966. Other top ten hits included the Grammy® winning “Monday, Monday”, “Creeque Alley”, and “Dedicated to the One I Love”. Their first concert was held at the Hollywood Bowl, and the band went on to close the Monterey International Pop festival in 1967, alongside acts such as Jefferson Airplane, The Who, Grateful Dead and Jimi Hendrix.

26 Sep 2022

Lily Weiner Recent ceremony, Television Permalink

Norman Reedus

Lily Weiner September 26, 2022

WHO | HONOREE Norman Reedus

EMCEE Lupita Sanchez Cornejo, Chair of the Hollywood Chamber of Commerce

GUEST SPEAKERS Greg Nicotero and Jon Bernthal

WHAT Dedication of the 2,734^th star on the Hollywood Walk of Fame

WHEN Tuesday, September 27, 2022, at 11:30 AM PT

WHERE 6600 Hollywood Boulevard, Hollywood, CA 90028

WATCH LIVE The event will be streamed live exclusively at walkoffame.com

Actor Norman Reedus was honored today with the 2,734^th star on the Hollywood Walk of Fame on September 27, 2022 at 11:30 a.m. The star is located at 6600 Hollywood Boulevard in front of Hollywood Toys & Costumes. Reedus was awarded his star in the category of Television.

ABOUT OUR HONOREE

“Norman Reedus is killing it! This fan favorite is constantly showing his talent. From actor to director to artist, his talent knows no bounds,” said Ana Martinez, Producer of the Hollywood Walk of Fame. “Norman’s star will appropriately be placed near the star of Night of the Living Dead creator George A. Romero,” added Martinez.

Joining emcee Lupita Sanchez Cornejo for the star unveiling were director Greg Nicotero and actor Jon Bernthal.

Over decades, multi-hyphenate Norman Reedus has been amassing a career that covers all artistic mediums including actor, photographer, director, and artist. As of recently, he has expanded his breadth of work to include becoming a NY Times best-selling author as well as a publisher, restauranteur, and entrepreneur. He is quickly building one of the most expansive, fan-inclusive brands in and out of Hollywood.

Reedus, who was born in Hollywood, Florida, is most-well known for starring as the fan favorite, crossbow-wielding zombie killer Daryl Dixon on AMC’s The Walking Dead. The series will end its 11-season run in Fall 2022, premiering on October 2nd. Reedus is set to reprise his role as Dixon in a spin-off, which will begin filming October in France, to premiere in 2023.

Reedus can also be seen as the host of AMC’s unscripted series Ride with Norman Reedus, on which he also serves as an Executive Producer. Each hour-long episode follows Reedus and a friend touring a different city via motorcycle, checking out bike shops, tattoo parlors, bars, and local restaurants frequented by the chopper enthusiasts. Reedus’ companions range from actors to local bikers. The sixth season will air Fall 2022 and additional seasons are forthcoming.

Reedus’ production banner bigbaldhead Productions has a first look deal with AMC and is developing several projects currently. He also has a publishing deal and imprint at Blackstone Publishing, which released his first novel, The Ravaged, in May 2022, which premiered on the NY Times Bestseller list. Additional novels from the imprint are forthcoming.

Reedus is previously well-known for playing the role of Murphy MacManus in the cult movie The Boondock Saints, where he stars opposite Sean Patrick Flanery and Willem Dafoe; he starred opposite Flanery again in the sequel, The Boondock Saints II: All Saints Day.

Reedus also previously starred in John Hillcoat’s ensemble cop drama Triple Nine, with Casey Affleck, Woody Harrelson, Chiwetel Ejiofor, Kate Winslet, Anthony Mackie, and Aaron Paul. He plays a corrupt cop who is blackmailed by the Russian mob into executing a virtually impossible heist. Reedus also starred opposite Diane Kruger, Lena Dunham, and Joshua Jackson in the French indie film Sky.

Additional film credits include Robert Kirkman’s sci-fi thriller Air, from Sony Pictures; the indie drama Sunlight Jr, which premiered at the 2013 Tribeca Film Festival and also starred Naomi Watts and Matt Dillon; the Robert Redford directed feature The Conspirator, which chronicles the trial that followed the assassination of Abraham Lincoln; the sci-fi feature thriller Pandorum, with Dennis Quaid and Ben Foster; the Sony feature Cadillac Records, opposite Adrien Brody; Six Ways to Sunday, 8mm, Beat, Deuces Wild, Blade 2, Gossip, and American Gangster.

Reedus is also an accomplished photographer as well as a director, having directed three short films. In October 2013, he released The Sun’s Coming Up… Like a Big Bald Head, a book of his photography. As a follow up, he released a second photography book called Portraits from the Woods on October 31, 2020.

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15 Sep 2022

Lily Weiner Recent ceremony, Recording Permalink

Kelly Clarkson

Lily Weiner September 15, 2022

WHO | HONOREE Kelly Clarkson

EMCEE Lupita Sanchez Cornejo, Chair of the Hollywood Chamber of Commerce

GUEST SPEAKERS Simon Cowell and Jason Halbert

WHAT Dedication of the 2,733rd star on the Hollywood Walk of Fame

WHEN Monday, September 19, 2022, at 11:30 AM PT

WHERE 6801 Hollywood Blvd in front of Ovation Hollywood

WATCH LIVE The event will be streamed live exclusively at walkoffame.com

Emmy Award winning talk show host, Grammy Award winning artist and America’s original idol, Kelly Clarkson, was honored with the 2,733^rd star on the Hollywood Walk of Fame on September 19, at 11:30 a.m. The star will be dedicated at 6801 Hollywood Blvd in front of Ovation Hollywood. Clarkson will be awarded her star in the category of Recording.

ABOUT OUR HONOREE

“Kelly Clarkson has been long deserving of a spot on the Hollywood Walk of Fame” stated Ana Martinez, Producer of the Hollywood Walk of Fame. “She has been an iconic person in American pop culture since she walked onto the first audition stage on American Idol and has continued to impress fans with her musical and talk show prowess.” added Martinez.

Simon Cowell and Jason Halbert joined emcee Lupita Sanchez Cornejo.

Kelly Clarkson, is one of the most popular artists of this era with total worldwide sales of more than 25 million albums and 40 million singles. Her multi-Emmy Award-winning daytime talk show, “The Kelly Clarkson Show,” is set to begin filming it’s 4th season this month. Additionally, she was the winning coach on seasons 14, 15, 17, and 21 of “The Voice.”

She recently released her EP “Kellyoke” which features six studio versions of popular covers from the Kellyoke segment on The Kelly Clarkson Show.

In 2021 she released her ninth studio album “When Christmas Comes Around…,” her latest since 2017’s critically acclaimed Grammy nominated album “Meaning of Life” and second holiday offering following 2013’s “Wrapped In Red.” The 15-track collection, featuring a mix of new original songs and Christmas classics, sees Clarkson explore a wide range of holiday emotions and experiences anchored by her incomparable vocal prowess.

The Texas-born singer-songwriter first came to fame in 2002 as the winner of the inaugural season of “American Idol.” Clarkson’s debut single, “A Moment Like This,” followed and quickly went to #1 on Billboard’s Hot 100, ultimately ranking as the year’s best-selling single in the U.S. Further, Clarkson is one of pop’s top singles artists, with 17 singles boasting multi-platinum, platinum and gold certifications around the world, including such global favorites as “Miss Independent” and “Because of You.”

Clarkson has released nine studio albums (“Thankful,” “Breakaway,” “My December,” “All I Ever Wanted,” “Stronger,” “Wrapped in Red,” “Piece By Piece,” “Meaning of Life,” “When Christmas Comes Around…”), one EP, “Kellyoke,” one greatest hits album and two children’s books (New York Times Top 10 bestseller “River Rose and the Magical Lullaby” and “River Rose and the Magical Christmas”).

She is the recipient of an array of awards, including a Daytime Emmy Award in 2022 for “Outstanding Entertainment Talk Show Host” for “The Kelly Clarkson Show”, one MTV Movie & TV Award, three Grammy Awards, four American Music Awards, three MTV Video Music Awards, two Academy of Country Music Awards, two American Country Awards and one Country Music Assn. Award. She is also the first artist to top each of Billboard’s pop, adult contemporary, country and dance charts.

Kelly Clarkson has always understood the importance of giving back and is committed to using her voice to raise funds and awareness for various organizations.

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06 Sep 2022

Lily Weiner Recent ceremony, Recording Permalink

Los Huracanes Del Norte

Lily Weiner September 6, 2022

WHO | HONOREE Los Huracanes Del Norte
EMCEE Lupita Sanchez Cornejo, Chair of the Hollywood Chamber of Commerce
GUEST SPEAKERS Jessica Maldonado and Oswaldo Diaz as character Erazno
WHAT Dedication of the 2,732nd star on the Hollywood Walk of Fame
WHEN Wednesday, September 7, 2022, at 11:30 AM PT
WHERE 7060 Hollywood Boulevard, Hollywood, CA 90028
WATCH LIVE The event will be streamed live exclusively at walkoffame.com

Award-winning “norteño” group Los Huracanes Del Norte were honored today with the 2,732nd star on the Hollywood Walk of Fame. The star was dedicated at 7060 Hollywood Boulevard. The group was awarded the star in the category of Recording.

ABOUT OUR HONOREES
“Los Huracanes Del Norte are known around the world. They have recorded more than 900 songs which allow their fans to remember their roots.” Stated Ana Martinez, Producer of the Hollywood Walk of Fame. Many of the tourists that come to Hollywood are from Latin America and they will be thrilled to see this star on our fabled sidewalk,” added Martinez.

Joining emcee Lupita Sanchez Cornejo for the star unveiling were Jessica Maldonado and radio personality Oswaldo Diaz who portrayed one of his characters Erazmo.

Los Huracanes del Norte is a pioneer group in the northern music genre “norteño” music that have left an unforgettable mark in the music scene. They are distinguished in their genre for their diligence, discipline, humility and love for life. They are creators of a distinctive style that has rendered them international fame and an impressive production of 68 albums, three Grammy nominations, winners of the Billboard magazine trophy “la voz”, the prestigious trophy of the Heraldo of Mexico, and numerous more awards. Los Huracanes del Norte will celebrate their 50th anniversary this year.

Four brothers, Heraclio, Jesus, Francisco, and Jose, started this musical legacy. They were born in Yahualica, Jalisco Mexico and raised in Tangancícuaro, Michoacan, then migrated to the United States with their parents. They were farmworkers by day, working in the California fields and performers at night. They were recording their first album during a stormy night when they came up with the name “Los Huracanes del Norte.”

Their first two albums: “El Corrido de Daniel Treviño” and “La Gavilla del Burro Prieto” allowed to cross the San Jose boundaries, tour radio stations, and other California towns. Soon after they were successfully able to reach Arizona, New Mexico and even Illinois. In 1979 the hit “La Güera Musiquera” allowed them to be nominated for a Grammy and they were also awarded with their first gold record.
From 2001 to 2003, several new band members joined including: drummer Antonio Garcia “El Güero” (son of Heraclio), singer and accordionist, José Luis Mejia “El Chapete” and bajosexto and second voice, Rocky Jr. (son of Heraclio). Güero, Chapete, and Rocky Jr. represent the new era of the group along with the experience of their uncles, giving new life to the style of Huracanes and attracting a youthful fan base. The current group members include: Heraclio Garcia, Francisco Garcia, Jose Guadalupe Garcia, Jose De Jesus Garcia, Antonio Garcia, Jose Luis Mejia, Jaime Garcia, and Roberto Heraclio Garcia.

In 2019 the band received the unfortunate news diagnosing the leader of Los Huracanes del Norte, Heraclio Garcia with Non-Hodgkin lymphoma cancer. With a heavy heart he stopped touring with the band to complete the necessary Chemo and radiation treatments needed. It is during this difficult time that Jaime Garcia, a talented musician by nature and the third son of Heraclio, left his musical group to join Huracanes del Norte to fulfill the role of playing bass in the absence of his father.

After a year of cancer treatments, Heraclio triumphantly wins his battle against cancer. Today he happily travels with the band again slowly returning to the limelight and singing on stage where he was deeply missed.
With a lifetime of greatness and an exceptional career. Los Huracanes del Norte is an institution that confirms its status as one of the most emblematic and important groups of northern “norteño” music.

For philanthropy, the group is a large supporter of St. Jude Children’s Hospital.

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29 Aug 2022

Lily Weiner Recent ceremony, Recording Permalink

Avril Lavigne

Lily Weiner August 29, 2022

WHO | HONOREE Avril Lavigne

EMCEE Lupita Sanchez Cornejo, Chair of the Hollywood Chamber of Commerce

GUEST SPEAKERS Machine Gun Kelly

WHAT Dedication of the 2,731th star on the Hollywood Walk of Fame

WHEN Wednesday, August 31, 2022, at 11:30 AM PT

WHERE 6212 Hollywood Boulevard, Hollywood, CA 90028

WATCH LIVE The event will be streamed live exclusively at walkoffame.com

Award-winning singer-songwriter Avril Lavigne will be honored with the 2,731th star on the Hollywood Walk of Fame on August 31, at 11:30 a.m. The star will be dedicated at 6212 Hollywood Boulevard. Lavigne will be awarded her star in the category of Recording.

ABOUT OUR HONOREE
“This isn’t Complicated, Avril Lavigne is very deserving of this Walk of Fame star and we are thrilled to be honoring her with this great honor” stated Ana Martinez, Producer of the Hollywood Walk of Fame. “Avril’s fans have been blowing up my phone asking when she will be getting her star. We are thrilled to say that the time is now!” added Martinez.

Joining emcee Lupita Sanchez Cornejo for the star unveiling will be Machine Gun Kelly and others.

Avril Lavigne has made history, smashed records, and consistently blazed a trail of her own as an uncompromising force in music and culture. Beyond selling 40 million albums worldwide with 12.5 million units sold in the U.S. alone, she has notched eight GRAMMY® Award nominations in categories such as Best New Artist and Song of the Year twice for “Complicated” and “I’m with You.” In addition, she has received eight Juno Awards, including Artist of the Year.

Lavigne’s catalog comprises the septuple platinum Let Go, triple-platinum Under My Skin, double-platinum The Best Damn Thing, gold-selling Goodbye Lullaby, gold-selling Avril Lavigne, and Head Above Water highlighted by definitive smashes such as “Complicated,” “Sk8er Boi,” “Girlfriend,” “Here’s To Never Growing Up,” and “Head Above Water.” As such, she remains of “one of the Soundscan-era’s top-selling artists releasing albums in the U.S.” and “the third best-selling Canadian female artist of all-time.”

She earned a spot in the Top 10 of Billboard’s “Best of the 2000s” chart and holds a Guinness World Record as “the youngest female solo artist to top the UK chart,” while “Girlfriend” emerged as “first music video to reach 100 million views on YouTube.” She has also earned multiple #1‘s around the globe. Her social media following notably exceeds 93.8 million fans worldwide.

Kicking off her biggest and boldest chapter to date, Avril made her debut for Travis Barker’s DTA Records on February 25, 2022 with the release of her seventh studio album Love Sux. The album debuted in the top 10 on the Billboard Top 200 Chart, marking Avril’s 6th top 10 album on the chart, and landed at #2 on Billboard’s Top Album Sales Chart, Top Rock Albums Chart, and Top Alternative Albums Chart. The 12-track album features a slew of all-star collaborators including Travis Barker, Machine Gun Kelly, Mark Hoppus, blackbear, and more. Rolling Stone hailed the album as “absolutely killer,” while Forbes proclaimed: “Love Sux is Lavigne ready to reclaim her status as a true superstar.” Love Sux skyrocketed to the top of the charts all across the globe, including a #3 debut on the U.K. albums chart, marking Avril’s highest-charting album in the market in 15 years.

On June 4, 2022, Avril celebrated her iconic debut album with the release of Let Go (20th Anniversary Edition), which features 6 bonus tracks, including her newly recorded studio version of “Breakaway” plus Let Go sessions rarities. Avril is now touring throughout 2022 – starting with her sold-out Canadian headline tour, followed by her American tour with co-headliner Machine Gun Kelly, and capping off the year with her Love Sux Japan tour. Her headlining tour resumes Spring 2023 with U.K. and Europe dates. Avril shows no signs of slowing down, as she continues her reign as a female pioneer of the pop-punk genre.