Hollywood Walk of Fame

Walk of Fame Category Motion Pictures

Walk of Fame Category Television

Walk of Fame Category Recording

Walk of Fame Category Radio

Walk of Fame Category Theater

Hollywood Walk of Fame is a historic landmark located along Hollywood Boulevard and Vine Street in Hollywood, Los Angeles, California. It comprises more than 2,700 five-pointed terrazzo and brass stars embedded in the sidewalks. The stars are permanent public monuments to achievement in the entertainment industry, bearing the names of a mix of actors, musicians, directors, producers, musical and theatrical groups, fictional characters, and others.

History

The Hollywood Walk of Fame was conceived in 1953 by E.M. Stuart, the volunteer president of the Hollywood Chamber of Commerce, as a means to maintain the glory of a community whose name was synonymous with the entertainment industry. After a construction period and several legal battles, the first eight stars were laid in 1958 as a demonstration, but the official opening was on February 8, 1960.

Categories

The Walk of Fame is divided into five categories, each represented by a symbol:

• Motion pictures (represented by a film camera)
• Television (represented by a television set)
• Audio recording or music (represented by a phonograph record)
• Broadcast radio (represented by a microphone)
• Live theatre/live performance (represented by twin comedy/tragedy masks)

A new category for sports entertainment was added in 2008 but has yet to have any inductees.

Selection Process

Candidates for a star on the Walk of Fame are nominated annually, and the selection is made by a committee appointed by the Hollywood Chamber of Commerce. A fee, paid by the nominator or a sponsor, is required to fund the creation and maintenance of the star. Nominees must agree to attend the unveiling of their stars. Posthumous nominations require a five-year waiting period.

Notable Stars

Some of the most iconic stars on the Walk of Fame include those dedicated to Marilyn Monroe, Michael Jackson, Walt Disney, and The Beatles. Fictional characters such as Mickey Mouse, Donald Duck, and The Simpsons have also been honored.

Controversies

The Walk of Fame has been subject to controversies, including the selection process, the maintenance of the stars, and the inclusion of certain individuals. Criticisms have been directed at the requirement for nominees to attend the ceremony and the cost associated with the nomination.

Tourism

The Hollywood Walk of Fame is one of Los Angeles' most visited tourist attractions, drawing an estimated 10 million visitors annually. It plays a significant role in the city's tourism industry, offering a tangible connection to the stars of the entertainment world.

Preservation

Efforts to preserve the Hollywood Walk of Fame include regular maintenance and repair of damaged stars. The Walk of Fame is a Los Angeles Historic-Cultural Monument, and it is protected to maintain its heritage and significance to the entertainment industry.