International stars Angelique Kidjo and Deepika Padukone are set to break new ground as they join American celebrities like Miley Cyrus and Timothée Chalamet in receiving stars on the iconic Hollywood Walk of Fame.
The Hollywood Chamber of Commerce has announced its Class of 2026, naming 35 honorees, including Kidjo and Padukone, who will both make history with their inclusion.
Kidjo becomes the first Black African artist to earn the distinction, while Padukone is the first Indian actress to receive the honor.
Celebrated for her fusion of West African traditions with global music influences, Kidjo has built a career spanning more than 40 years. The five-time Grammy Award winner, born in Benin, shared her gratitude on Instagram, writing, “Thanks to all my fans who brought me here.”
At the official announcement on Wednesday, she was hailed as Africa’s “premier diva.”
Kidjo, who also serves as an ambassador for both UNICEF and OXFAM, will stand alongside South African actress Charlize Theron—who received her star in 2005—as only the second African-born celebrity to be honored on the Walk of Fame.
Padukone, who entered Hollywood in 2018 with her role in xXx: Return of Xander Cage, is widely celebrated for her acclaimed performances in numerous Bollywood blockbusters.
She summed up her reaction to the honor with a single word on Instagram Stories: “Gratitude.”
The first Indian actor to be inducted into the Hollywood Walk of Fame was Sabu Dastagir, who began his Hollywood career in the 1930s and received his star in 1960.
According to Billboard, Kidjo and Padukone are among several international stars set to be received as stars on the Hollywood Walk of Fame, including British actress Emily Blunt, French actress Marion Cotillard, Canadian star Rachel McAdams, Italian actor Franco Nero, Mexican performer Lucero, Filipino singer and actress Lea Salonga, Australian pop duo Air Supply, Brazilian percussionist Paulinho da Costa, and British chef and TV personality Gordon Ramsay.
About The Author
