Lea Salonga to get her star on Hollywood Walk of Fame

(UPDATE) TONY Award-winning Filipino theater icon Lea Salonga has been selected as a member of the Hollywood Walk of Fame’s Class of 2026. The announcement was made Wednesday (Los Angeles time) by the Hollywood Chamber of Commerce.

Lisa Lew, co-founder and executive producer of the Manila International Film Festival (MIFF), confirmed the news to The Manila Times that MIFF nominated Salonga for the recognition.

“This morning (Los Angeles time), Lea’s officially been selected,” Lew said in a personal message from the US early Thursday in Manila. “This recognition is not just for her extraordinary talent but for everything she represents: excellence, integrity and cultural pride.”

Salonga, who has made an indelible mark on Broadway, Disney and the global concert stage, will receive her star in the Live Theater category. Her selection makes her the fourth Filipino and the first Filipina to be honored on the Hollywood Walk of Fame. Other Filipinos who have received stars include comedian Rob Schneider and global music superstar Bruno Mars. Apl.de.Ap is set to receive his star with his Black Eyed Peas bandmates, and Salonga will soon join them as the fourth Filipino honoree.

In response to the news, Salonga posted on Instagram: “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!”

Lew emphasized Salonga’s impact as a trailblazer and a voice for generations.

“Her legacy continues to open doors for countless Filipino and Asian artists worldwide,” Lew said.

The Manila International Film Festival hopes to hold Salonga’s Hollywood Walk of Fame ceremony in March 2026, coinciding with the festival’s next edition in Los Angeles.

Alongside Salonga, some of the biggest names included in the Class of 2026 are Miley Cyrus, Josh Groban, Shaquille O’Neal, Demi Moore, Molly Ringwald, Emily Blunt, Timothée Chalamet, Rami Malek, Rachel McAdams, Gordon Ramsay, Deepika Padukone and Franco Nero.

Also among the honorees are Brazilian musician Paulinho da Costa, Beninese-French singer and actress Angélique Kidjo, Mexican entertainer Lucero, Australian pop group Air Supply and The Clark Sisters. Joining Salonga in the Live Theater category is stand-up comedy superstar Gabriel “Fluffy” Iglesias.

Salonga, a celebrated performer on Broadway and the West End, is best known for originating the role of Kim in “Miss Saigon,” her performances as Eponine and Fantine in “Les Misérables,” and her iconic work as the singing voice of Disney princesses Jasmine in “Aladdin” and Mulan in “Mulan.” Her decadeslong career continues to inspire audiences worldwide with her unmatched vocal prowess and commitment to artistic excellence.

The Manila International Film Festival is an annual event dedicated to showcasing Filipino films and talent to global audiences. It also actively champions Filipino excellence in the international film and entertainment industries, aiming to build bridges between Hollywood and Philippine cinema.

TESSA MAURICIO-ARRIOLA