Grammy-winning singer and global music icon Angelique Kidjo is set to make history as the first African artist to receive a star on the Hollywood Walk of Fame.
The announcement was made by the Hollywood Chamber of Commerce, which unveiled the list of honorees for the Walk of Fame Class of 2026.
Kidjo’s inclusion marks a major milestone, not just for her career but also for African music and culture as a whole.
Celebrating a legacy of global impact
Kidjo, born in Benin, has spent decades using her voice and music to bridge cultures and inspire change. Known for blending West African sounds with elements of American funk, jazz, and Latin influences, she has earned widespread acclaim and several Grammy Awards.
Throughout her career, she has also used her platform to advocate for education, women’s rights, and African development. Her artistry and activism have made her one of the most influential African musicians of all time.
This honour on Hollywood Boulevard recognises not only her musical achievements but also her role as a cultural ambassador. With this recognition, Kidjo joins an exclusive group of global stars who have left a lasting mark on the entertainment industry.
Hollywood honours global talent
The Beninese singer is among a diverse list of international entertainers named in the 2026 Walk of Fame class. The list includes prominent figures from film, music, and sports, showcasing Hollywood’s growing appreciation for global talent.
Some of the other celebrities selected this year include American pop sensation Miley Cyrus, known for her chart-topping hits and bold performances, and French-American actor Timothée Chalamet, praised for his roles in films like Dune and Call Me by Your Name.
Also on the list is retired NBA star and current sports analyst Shaquille O’Neal, whose influence extends beyond the basketball court into entertainment, business, and philanthropy.
A truly international lineup
In addition to Kidjo, the 2026 honorees feature a broad mix of celebrated performers from around the world.
Filipino singer and Broadway legend Lea Salonga, best known for her roles in Miss Saigon and Disney’s Aladdin and Mulan, will receive a star for her decades-long contribution to music and theatre.
French actress Marion Cotillard, who won an Academy Award for her portrayal of Édith Piaf in La Vie en Rose, is also among the honorees, as is Indian film star Deepika Padukone, who has become one of Bollywood’s most recognised faces internationally.
British actress Emily Blunt, famous for her performances in A Quiet Place, The Devil Wears Prada, and Mary Poppins Returns, will also receive a star, as will Canadian actress Rachel McAdams, widely known for her roles in The Notebook, Mean Girls, and Spotlight.
Star ceremony timeline
While the Walk of Fame selection has been confirmed, the actual date for the star installation ceremonies is yet to be announced. The Hollywood Chamber of Commerce typically gives honorees up to two years to schedule and carry out their induction.
This means Kidjo and the other selected stars will have until 2028 to arrange their ceremonies, which are often attended by fans, friends, and fellow celebrities.
A landmark moment for African music
Angelique Kidjo’s selection is more than a personal triumph; it is a powerful moment for African music. For years, African artists have influenced global sound, yet few have received recognition on this scale in the heart of the American entertainment industry.
With this honour, Kidjo becomes a trailblazer for African artists aspiring to reach global audiences. Her star on the Hollywood Walk of Fame will serve as a permanent reminder of the continent’s rich cultural heritage and its growing influence in global entertainment.
As fans around the world celebrate this achievement, many also hope it opens the door for more African stars to be recognised in the future. For now, Angelique Kidjo stands tall, an icon of music, activism, and African pride, ready to leave her mark on Hollywood’s most famous sidewalk.
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