Elvis Presley, the King of Rock and Roll, left an indelible mark on music and popular culture. His legacy is further cemented by his presence on the Hollywood Walk of Fame, where he has not one, but two stars. This article delves into the history and significance of Elvis’ stars, exploring their creation, the unique circumstances surrounding them, and their enduring appeal to fans worldwide.
The Genesis of the Hollywood Walk of Fame
The concept for the Hollywood Walk of Fame emerged in 1958, inspired by the painted stars on the ceiling of the old Hollywood Hotel. The idea was to create a lasting tourist attraction by inscribing the names of celebrities onto the sidewalks of Hollywood Boulevard. Proposed by businessman Harry Sugarman and further developed by publicist Sue Clark Chadwick and other Chamber of Commerce members, the Walk of Fame was officially opened on February 9, 1960, with 2,500 blank stars in place. The stars are awarded in five categories: motion pictures, radio, television, music, and theater, each represented by a unique bronze emblem.
Elvis Presley’s First Star: A February 1960 Unveiling
Elvis Presley received his first star on the very first day the Hollywood Walk of Fame was dedicated, February 9, 1960. Located at 6777 Hollywood Boulevard, between Highland Avenue and MacCadden, his original star was a testament to his burgeoning impact on the recording industry. While news reports often cite Joanne Woodward as receiving the first star that day, Elvis was among the eight performers honored. Notably, Elvis was unable to attend the ceremony as he was still serving in Germany. The rules at the time did not require the honoree to attend, unlike today where recipients must agree to view their star within five years of its placement.
Recognition for the Recording Industry and Beyond
Elvis’ initial star was awarded for his significant contributions to the recording industry, symbolized by the phonographic record emblem. However, his multifaceted career could have easily warranted stars in other categories. His early radio broadcasts in the 1950s, extensive film work, live performances in Las Vegas and Tahoe, and groundbreaking television appearances, including the 1968 “Comeback Special” and the “Aloha from Hawaii” concert, all demonstrated his widespread influence across various entertainment fields. A few honorees have indeed received multiple stars for contributions to separate categories, with Gene Autry being the only person to receive stars in all five. Elvis, however, stands among a select group to have been awarded “two” stars, a rare distinction, especially in recent decades.
The Evolution and Maintenance of the Stars
Over the decades, the Hollywood Walk of Fame has expanded, with new stars added at a rate of approximately two per month. By 1994, over 2,000 original stars had been placed, necessitating the addition of new areas like the Silver Four Ladies of Hollywood Gazebo. The stars themselves are crafted from terrazzo with a pink five-pointed star rimmed in bronze, inlaid into a charcoal square, featuring the honoree’s name and category emblem in bronze.
The Walk of Fame has faced challenges, including the theft of stars belonging to James Stewart, Kirk Douglas, Gregory Peck, and one of Gene Autry’s. Unofficially, Elvis’ star has seen numerous inscriptions from visitors over the years. Furthermore, the stars have been subject to damage from subway construction, earthquake aftershocks, and general wear and tear. In 1998, reports emerged about cracks and bubbling in the concrete surrounding some stars. When construction occurs very close to a star, it is carefully removed and stored until building work is completed.
Elvis’ Second Star and Restoration Efforts
In August 1972, Rex Martin visited Elvis’ star, finding it still in perfect condition. However, reports later indicated that Elvis’ star likely developed cracks in its lower portion due to subway construction. While under repair, a second Elvis star was prepared and intended to be placed at the corner of Hollywood Boulevard and La Brea. The original cracked star remained on display for a time.
Near the end of 2008, the original star was reportedly taken up, repaired, and then rededicated. A news report from the LA Daily News highlighted concerns from community activists about the poor condition of many Walk of Fame stars, including Presley’s, which had suffered from 48 years of wear, subway construction, and fan interactions. Johnny Grant, chairman of the Hollywood Chamber of Commerce and the Hollywood Historic Trust, ordered immediate repairs. The star was removed, the damaged terrazzo replaced, and the original star was reinstalled for a rededication ceremony. Lisa Marie Presley issued a statement expressing her gratitude for the restoration. The Trust also committed $1.1 million to repair other stars on the walk and explore fundraising for a permanent maintenance fund, including an “adopt-a-star” program.
The Personal Award: A Unique Testament
Beyond the public stars, Elvis Presley received a personal award from the Hollywood Chamber of Commerce in recognition of his star on the Walk of Fame, presented on February 9, 1960. This exceptionally rare and important award, designed by Hartt Trophy and Engraving, features Elvis’ engraved name and a symbolic turntable, mounted on deep blue velvet within a toned honey-colored wood frame. Such awards were unique, with Hartt Trophy never creating duplicates. This particular artifact, a testament to his legendary status, was once part of a collection intended for a museum in Japan before being acquired by its current owner. It represents a tangible connection to a pivotal moment in the career of an artist who irrevocably transformed music and American culture.
The enduring presence of Elvis Presley’s stars on the Hollywood Walk of Fame, coupled with his personal award, serves as a powerful reminder of his unparalleled impact and timeless legacy. These honors continue to draw millions of visitors annually, celebrating a true icon whose music and influence resonate across generations.