Lea Salonga made history today as the first Filipina to receive a star on the Hollywood Walk of Fame. The ceremony took place in front of the historic Pantages Theatre, where Salonga expressed her amazement at walking the same streets that have honored countless entertainment icons.
“This is surreal,” Salonga said, noting that she has walked down this street many times and now her name joins the ranks of those celebrated here. She reflected on her humble beginnings in the Philippines, recalling how she loved to sing and perform as a child and never imagined her career would lead to such a milestone.
Salonga hopes her achievement will encourage young Filipino children to pursue their dreams. “I hope that someday a young Filipino kid comes to Hollywood, sees my name and thinks, ‘Oh, maybe I can get here too,’” she said.
Career highlights that led to the honor
Salonga’s Broadway breakthrough came with her Tony Award‑winning performance as Kim in the original production of “Miss Saigon,” a role that also earned her the Laurence Olivier Award for Best Actress in a Musical in 1990. She later became the first Asian woman to win a Tony for Best Actress in a Musical in 1991.
Her trailblazing career continued with historic casting as Éponine in “Les Misérables,” making her the first Asian actress to play the role on Broadway. Additional Broadway credits include revivals of “Les Misérables” (as Fantine), “Once on This Island,” “Here Lies Love,” “Allegiance,” “Flower Drum Song,” and “Stephen Sondheim’s Old Friends.”
Disney legacy and upcoming projects
Salonga’s voice has become a staple of Disney classics. She provided the singing voice for Jasmine in the 1992 animated film “Aladdin” and for the Chinese folk heroine in Disney’s 1998 film “Mulan.” In August, she performed a duet of “A Whole New World” with Brandy at Disney California Adventure’s “Disney Princess: The Ultimate Concert Celebration.”
Her next film role will be as The Dreaded Manananggal in DreamWorks Animation’s upcoming fantasy adventure comedy “Forgotten Island,” slated for release on September 25.
Recognition at home and abroad
Beyond the Walk of Fame star, Salonga has been honored in her native Philippines with the Presidential Medal of Merit, the rank of Commander of the Order of Lakandula, and the Congressional Medal of Achievement for showcasing Filipino musical talent on the world stage.
She will also receive the Icon Award at the third annual Manila International Film Festival’s gala at The Beverly Hilton, further cementing her status as a cultural ambassador for the Filipino community.
Original reporting: NBC10 Boston — read the source article.
