Angélique Kidjo, the celebrated Grammy-winning artist from Benin, has become the first black African performer to be selected for a star on the Hollywood Walk of Fame, joining a prestigious list that includes numerous international celebrities.
Angélique Kidjo Makes History as First Black African Star on Hollywood Walk of Fame
Angélique Kidjo Makes History as First Black African Star on Hollywood Walk of Fame
Renowned Beninese singer Angélique Kidjo honored as the first black African performer to receive a star on the Hollywood Walk of Fame.
Musical sensation Angélique Kidjo has etched her name in history as the first black African performer to be awarded a star on the illustrious Hollywood Walk of Fame. The announcement came as part of the Walk of Fame's class of 2026, where she was distinguished among 35 honored names. At 64 years old, Kidjo, a five-time Grammy award winner, has been hailed as the "premier diva" of Africa during a dedicated press event.
This recognition places Kidjo alongside other entertainment legends like Miley Cyrus, Timothée Chalamet, Demi Moore, and Shaquille O'Neal, all of whom are set to receive their stars on the iconic walkway in Los Angeles. With a music career spanning over four decades and 16 albums, Kidjo's powerful vocals and artistic versatility have gained her a global fanbase and allowed her to seamlessly blend musical styles from West African traditions to funk, jazz, and R&B.
Her collaborations with leading artists, including Burna Boy, Philip Glass, Sting, and Alicia Keys, further cement her status within the music industry. While her achievements for Africa are significant, Kidjo's representation on the Walk of Fame is matched only by South African actress Charlize Theron, who received her star in 2005.
Details regarding the date of Kidjo's star unveiling remain unconfirmed, though recipients of this honor are given two years to arrange their induction ceremonies. Hailing from Benin, Kidjo relocated to Paris in 1983, escaping the oppressive grip of a communist regime. Reflecting on her journey, she expressed her lifelong curiosity and desire to explore the world, earning the nickname "when, why, how?" in her youth.
In addition to her musical prowess, Kidjo is a dedicated humanitarian, serving as a UNICEF and Oxfam goodwill ambassador and founding her charity, Batonga, which focuses on the education of young girls in Africa.
