The Hollywood Walk of Fame is a world-famous landmark that stretches across 1.3 miles in Los Angeles, celebrating major figures from the worlds of film, TV, music, radio, and live performance. With over 2,800 stars lining the sidewalk, it’s a symbol of success and recognition in the entertainment industry. But how does someone earn this prestigious honor? Let’s take a closer look at the process.

What is the Hollywood Walk of Fame?

The Hollywood Walk of Fame is more than just a sidewalk—it’s a living tribute to the stars who have made a significant impact on entertainment. These commemorative stars, which feature the name of the honoree along with their category of achievement, can be found along Hollywood Boulevard and Vine Street in Los Angeles. The Walk of Fame began in 1960, and since then, thousands of stars have been added to the list, with Billie Jean King set to be honored as star number 2,807 in 2023.

The stars are awarded in six categories: Motion Pictures, Television, Music, Radio, Live Theatre/Performance, and, as of 2023, Sports Entertainment. It’s an iconic part of the Hollywood experience, and many people dream of one day having their name immortalized on this famous stretch.

How Do Celebrities Get Nominated?

Getting a star on the Hollywood Walk of Fame isn’t as simple as just being famous. Celebrities must be nominated before they can be considered for this honor. But how does the nomination process work?

The Walk of Fame allows anyone, including fans or the celebrity’s management team, to submit a nomination. The important part here is that the celebrity has to agree to be nominated. A letter of agreement from the celebrity or their representative must be included in the nomination. Without it, the application won’t even be considered.

The Cost of a Star

It might seem like a free honor, but there’s a price tag attached to getting a star on the Hollywood Walk of Fame. The nomination fee is $275 (approximately €250), which covers the processing of the application. However, once a celebrity is selected, there’s a sponsorship fee of $85,000 (about €77,500). This hefty sum goes towards creating and installing the star and maintaining the Walk of Fame.

While this might seem expensive, it’s a necessary part of the process to keep the Walk of Fame in pristine condition and continue adding new stars. Interestingly, the cost could change over time, but it’s the celebrity or their management team that must foot the bill. So, some big names may not have received a star yet simply because they haven’t paid the installation costs.

Criteria for a Star

To be eligible for a star, celebrities must meet several important criteria. These include:

Professional Achievements: The celebrity must have made significant contributions to their field, whether in film, music, television, or live performance.
Longevity: They must have been active in their field for at least five years.
Contributions to the Community: Celebrities who have made a positive impact outside of their work in entertainment, like through charitable efforts or public service, are also considered.
Commitment to Attend the Ceremony: Celebrities must agree to attend the dedication ceremony if selected. The Hollywood Walk of Fame requires this commitment, as the ceremony is a big part of the star’s unveiling and celebration.

Timing and Selection Process

Once a celebrity is nominated, they must wait for the annual selection process. Nominations are reviewed and voted on in June each year, with about 30 stars selected annually. However, after being selected, honorees have two years to schedule their dedication ceremony. If they don’t, the nomination expires and they must reapply.

This annual selection process ensures that the Walk of Fame stays relevant and reflects the contributions of modern-day stars, as well as honoring legends of the past.

Posthumous Stars

One interesting aspect of the Walk of Fame is that they award one posthumous star each year. These stars are given to celebrities who have passed away but made significant contributions to their field during their lifetime. However, posthumous nominations also have a waiting period of two years after the celebrity’s death before they can be considered for a star.

Why Did Gal Gadot Get Her Star Before Some Major Celebrities?

One of the most talked-about recent additions to the Hollywood Walk of Fame was Gal Gadot, who received her star in 2023. Her honor raised some eyebrows, as many wondered why she was recognized while other big names like Angelina Jolie or Leonardo DiCaprio had yet to receive a star. The answer might lie in the costs associated with securing a star and the celebrity’s willingness to pay for it. Some stars might simply choose not to go through the expense, or they might be waiting for the right moment to accept the honor.

Conclusion: A Prestigious Honor

The Hollywood Walk of Fame is a huge honor that celebrates those who have made a significant mark on the entertainment world. From the nomination process to the costs involved, it’s clear that getting a star requires both professional achievement and financial commitment. Whether you’re a fan, a celebrity, or part of a celebrity’s management team, the process of getting a star is a fascinating journey that adds another layer of mystique to Hollywood’s glittering sidewalks.