Hollywood Walk of Fame: The First Stars and Their Lasting Legacy
The Hollywood Walk of Fame debuted in 1958 with eight stars, honoring early film icons. Discover how this tradition began, who the first honorees were, and why the Walk still matters in Hollywood today.
“The Hollywood Walk of Fame is the ultimate honour for a performer,” Steve Carell remarked during Jennifer Garner’s star ceremony in 2018.
“Induction into this rarefied group is a celebration of career excellence.”
For countless performers, earning a spot on the Walk is a dream come true—a symbol of years of dedication and a permanent mark of their achievements. Many recipients echo Carell’s sentiment, reflecting on how the Walk has evolved from a modest tribute to a world-famous symbol of recognition.
Director Tim Burton once shared his own perspective, recalling how, as a child, he misunderstood the Walk’s purpose. He thought the stars were gravestones for Hollywood’s greats, but his view changed over time.
“I used to come down here and visit the Larry Edmunds bookshop and come here, and when I found out it was here, I almost started crying because I’ve been coming here ever since I was a little child, and the store hasn’t changed at all,”
he said.
“So for me, it’s such an honour to have a star but also to have it right here in front of this incredible shop, museum, toy shop, everything… I used to spend my life here; thank you so much.”
How the Walk of Fame Was Born
The idea for the Walk of Fame came from E.M. Stuart, a volunteer with the Hollywood Chamber of Commerce, back in 1953. Stuart wanted to preserve the glamour and excitement that Hollywood represented around the globe. Over the next few years, plans took shape, and by 1958, the first eight stars were ready to be revealed. This initial group included Olive Borden, Ronald Colman, Louise Fazenda, Preston Foster, Burt Lancaster, Edward Sedgwick, Ernest Torrence, and Joanne Woodward. While Joanne Woodward is often credited as the first recipient—thanks to a famous photo of her beside her star—all eight were honored at the same time. Unlike today’s elaborate ceremonies, their unveilings were much more understated.
The Walk’s Growing Influence
Since 1960, more than 2,800 names have been added to the Walk. Over the years, the significance of receiving a star has sparked debate. Some question whether the honor still carries the same weight, especially since many deserving figures remain unrecognized. The selection process is rigorous, involving self-nomination and review by a committee, but the Walk continues to be a major milestone in the entertainment industry.
For many, the Walk has become less about personal achievement and more about community. Ceremonies now feature heartfelt speeches, inside jokes, and stories that highlight the honoree’s impact on their peers. Despite changing times and shifting opinions, the Walk of Fame remains a powerful symbol of Hollywood’s enduring spirit.