Filipina Icon Lea Salonga Gets Star on Walk of Fame

Filipina entertainment icon Lea Salonga was honored on Friday with her own star on the Hollywood Walk of Fame, marking the 2,855th addition to the iconic landmark. Salonga, celebrated globally for lending her voice to beloved Disney characters Princess Jasmine in Aladdin and Mulan in the animated film Mulan, now has her star placed on Hollywood Boulevard near the Pantages Theatre.

Her illustrious career includes a historic win as the first Asian woman to receive a Tony Award in 1991 for her role in Miss Saigon. During the ceremony, guests including Brandy, Ming-Na Wen, and Darren Criss shared their admiration for Salonga's significant impact on the arts and her trailblazing achievements.

Salonga, who is the first Filipina to receive this honor, described the moment as surreal. She reflected on her unexpected journey from starting work at a young age to becoming a global star, expressing her hope that her achievement will inspire young Filipinos to pursue their dreams in Hollywood.