International theater icon and Disney Legend Lea Salonga made history on September 4, 2026, becoming the first Filipino recipient of a star on the legendary Hollywood Walk of Fame.
The Tony Award-winning performer was honored with the 2,855th star under the Live Performance category. The sidewalk tile was formally unveiled directly outside the historic Pantages Theatre on Hollywood Boulevard, a fitting location reflecting her decades-long impact on live stage theater.
The ceremony, emceed by Emmy Award-winning journalist Sibley Scoles, brought together high-profile guest speakers, family members, and hundreds of roaring fans. Actress Ming-Na Wen—who voiced the speaking role of Mulan alongside Salonga’s singing voice in Disney’s animated classic—delivered an emotional tribute, noting that Hollywood is significantly brighter with Salonga’s star on the boulevard. Actor Darren Criss, donning a traditional barong Tagalog, also spoke, praising Salonga’s relentless work ethic and dedication to her craft.
Here are some of the highlights of the Star unveiling ceremony;
Dressed in a sleek purple suit, Salonga opened her acceptance speech with her signature sharp wit: “I’ve walked down this street many times. I’ve stepped on a lot of famous people, and now people get to step on me—which feels strangely appropriate for show business!”
Turning heartfelt, Salonga reflected on her journey from a young girl starting her career in Manila to international stardom, acknowledging the lack of Asian representation on global stages when she first started out. Though her name is the one etched into the brass star, she emphasized that a career is never built alone, dedicating the honor to her family, teachers, directors, crew members, and her devoted global fanbase.
“Long before Hollywood, long before Broadway, there was Manila,” Salonga remarked. “I hope that someday a young Filipino kid comes to Hollywood, sees my name, and thinks, ‘Oh, maybe I can get here too.'”
Salonga’s historic star cements a career filled with milestones—from her breakout role as Kim in Miss Saigon and legendary runs in Les Misérables, to defining the singing voices of Disney’s Princess Jasmine and Mulan.
Source: Manila Times
