Filipina Broadway legend and Tony Award winner Lea Salonga is poised to make history as the first Filipino to receive a star on the Hollywood Walk of Fame, solidifying her legacy as one of the most iconic figures in global theater and music.
Salonga confirmed the news on her Instagram Stories. She wrote, “Just now woke up to this bit of amazing news!” expressing genuine surprise and joy over the honor.
In addition, the Tony Award extended her gratitude to the Manila International Film Festival, saying, “Many thanks for nominating me to be part of the class of 2025–26!”
The Walk of Fame selection process is highly competitive, with hundreds of submissions reviewed annually by the Hollywood Chamber of Commerce. Salonga will join an elite group of honorees receiving stars in 2026, alongside global celebrities such as Miley Cyrus, Timothée Chalamet, Emily Blunt, and Rachel McAdams. Her inclusion in this prestigious list reflects not just her immense talent but also her enduring influence on the international performing arts scene.
Lea Salonga became a household name worldwide when she originated the role of Kim in Miss Saigon, a performance that earned her the Tony Award for Best Actress in a Musical in 1991. She made history as the first Asian woman to win the award. Salonga later lent her voice to two beloved Disney princesses—Jasmine in Aladdin and Mulan in Mulan—solidifying her place as a voice of inspiration for young performers of color.
Beyond the stage, Salonga is known for her advocacy for representation and artistic excellence. Her recent Broadway performance in Stephen Sondheim’s Old Friends was widely praised and earned her a nomination for the Distinguished Performance Award at the 2025 Drama League Awards, further underscoring her stature as a world-class performer.
Despite her international acclaim, Salonga remains deeply rooted in her heritage. In August, she will headline the Philippine production of Into the Woods, portraying The Witch—a challenging and iconic role in the musical theater canon. Adding a heartwarming twist, her child, Nic Chien, will also appear in the production, playing the role of Jack. The upcoming show marks a rare and meaningful opportunity for the two to share the stage in their home country.
Salonga’s upcoming Walk of Fame star is not only a recognition of her individual achievements but also a powerful moment of representation for Filipinos and Asians in the global entertainment industry. For many fans, especially those in the Philippines, it is a long-overdue acknowledgment of her trailblazing career.
Lea Salonga’s story is one of perseverance, passion, and groundbreaking success—a testament to how talent and authenticity can transcend borders.
Her star on the Hollywood Walk of Fame will shine not only as a tribute to her extraordinary body of work but also as a beacon of pride and inspiration for generations to come.
