Star Plaques

Overview

The Star Plaques, more commonly known as the stars of the Hollywood Walk of Fame, are an iconic landmark nestled in the heart of Los Angeles, California, United States. This world-renowned stretch spans approximately 15 blocks of Hollywood Boulevard and three blocks of Vine Street, featuring more than 2,700 five-pointed terrazzo and brass stars embedded in the sidewalks. Each star serves as a permanent tribute to individuals and groups who have made significant contributions to the entertainment industry, creating a tangible connection between the public and their beloved celebrities.

Administered by the Hollywood Chamber of Commerce and maintained by the Hollywood Historic Trust, the Walk of Fame is more than just a sidewalk; it's an enduring symbol of Hollywood's legacy and a bustling, free attraction drawing millions of visitors annually.

History & Cultural Background

The concept for the Hollywood Walk of Fame was first proposed in 1953 by E.M. Stuart, who was then the volunteer president of the Hollywood Chamber of Commerce. His vision was to 'maintain the glory of a community whose name means glamour and excitement in the four corners of the world'. While the exact inspiration remains debated, one theory suggests it originated from stars painted on the dining room ceiling of the historic Hollywood Hotel.

After years of planning, eight temporary prototype stars were unveiled in August 1958 to generate public excitement. The official groundbreaking took place on February 8, 1960, and the first permanent star was installed for director Stanley Kramer on March 28, 1960. The initial years saw a period of stagnation, with few stars added during the 1960s and 1970s. However, the Walk of Fame experienced a significant revitalization in the 1980s, largely thanks to the efforts of Johnny Grant, who spearheaded new procedures and ceremonies, cementing its place as a major tourist draw.

What Makes It Special

Each star on the Hollywood Walk of Fame is a unique piece of public art, crafted from terrazzo and brass. The honoree's name is inscribed in brass, topped with a distinctive emblem indicating their category of achievement. These categories include motion pictures (represented by a film camera), television (a television set), radio (a microphone), recording (a phonograph record), live theatre/performance (tragedy/comedy masks), and sports entertainment (a sports emblem). This diverse representation ensures that a broad spectrum of talent across the entertainment landscape is recognized.

The selection process for receiving a star is rigorous and managed by the Hollywood Chamber of Commerce. Criteria include professional achievement, a minimum of five years' longevity in their respective field, and contributions to the community. Furthermore, living honorees are required to attend their dedication ceremony. A significant aspect is the fee, currently around $75,000, which is paid by the nominating party (often a studio or fan club) to cover the star's creation, installation, and ongoing maintenance.

Stories, Fun Facts & Local Details

• A Star on the Wall: Boxing legend Muhammad Ali's star is famously the only one not embedded in the sidewalk. Due to his religious beliefs, he requested that his name, which bore the name of Prophet Muhammad, not be walked upon, so his star was mounted on a wall at the Dolby Theatre.
• Beyond Human Achievements: The Walk of Fame isn't exclusively for people. Fictional characters like Mickey Mouse, Godzilla, and Winnie the Pooh have been honored. Even canine stars like Lassie and Rin Tin Tin have their own stars, celebrating their significant impact on entertainment.
• Multiple Honors: Some exceptional individuals have multiple stars recognizing their accomplishments in different categories. For instance, Gene Autry holds the distinction of being the only person with five stars, one in each of the original categories.
• Personalized Locations: Honorees can sometimes request specific locations for their stars, often choosing a spot with personal significance to their career.

Visitor Perspective

A visit to the Hollywood Walk of Fame offers a chance to literally walk among legends. As a free attraction, it's accessible to everyone, but planning can enhance the experience. To avoid the largest crowds and capture clearer photos, consider visiting early in the morning or later in the evening. Maps are readily available, including online search tools, to help locate specific stars of interest among the thousands spread across Hollywood Boulevard and Vine Street.

The Walk of Fame is centrally located amidst other iconic Hollywood attractions, such as the TCL Chinese Theatre, where you can compare your handprints to those of movie stars, and the Dolby Theatre, home to the Academy Awards. Attending a live star unveiling ceremony, though requiring some planning to align with schedules, offers a unique opportunity to witness Hollywood history being made. These ceremonies are free and open to the public, attracting enthusiastic crowds eager to celebrate their idols.