Award-winning actress and singer Lea Salonga is set to make “herstory” as the first Filipina to receive a star on the prestigious Hollywood Walk of Fame.
According to Billboard’s official website, Salonga joins the Class of 2026 honorees, a list that includes 34 other global entertainment figures across television, film, music, and live performance.
The Broadway star is the only recipient in the Live Theatre/Live Performance category, alongside comedian Gabriel “Fluffy” Iglesias, making her the first Filipina to join the list of Asian artists on the Hollywoodd Walk of Fame.
Previously, there have been three male celebrities of Filipino descent, Bruno Mars, Apl.de.ap of The Black Eyed Peas, and comedian Rob Schneider, who received stars in the past.
The Manila International Film Festival, which nominated Salonga for the honor, celebrated the announcement on social media, calling her a “trailblazer and a voice for generations.”
“We’re incredibly proud to share that the Manila International Film Festival had the honor of nominating the one and only Lea Salonga for a star on the Hollywood Walk of Fame — and she’s officially been selected! 🌟”, its Facebook post began.
“From Broadway to Disney to the global concert stage, Lea has been a trailblazer and a voice for generations. Her impact on the world of music, theater, and film is undeniable — and her legacy continues to open doors for countless Filipino and Asian artists worldwide.”
“Congratulations and BRAVO, Lea — this moment is so well-deserved, and we are beyond thrilled to celebrate YOU!”, the message concluded.
In an Instagram story, Salonga expressed her surprise and gratitude to the organization, writing, “Just now woke up to this bit of amazing news!!! To the Manila International Filmfest, many thanks for nominating me to be part of the class of 2025–26!”
Lea and other honorees have two years to schedule their formal star-unveiling ceremony, dates for which are usually announced one to two weeks in advance.
Other members of the 2026 Walk of Fame class include Miley Cyrus, Timothée Chalamet, Rami Malek, Emily Blunt, Stanley Tucci, Demi Moore, Rachel McAdams, Josh Groban, Shaquille O’Neal, Gordon Ramsay, Sarah Michelle Gellar, Molly Ringwald, Marion Cotillard, Chris Columbus, Bradley Whitford, Noah Wyle, Keith David, Air Supply, and Bone Thugs-N-Harmony.
