Beninese-French music legend Angélique Kidjo has cemented her place in global music history, becoming the first African artiste ever to receive a star on the Hollywood Walk of Fame.
The Grammy-winning icon was officially named among the Class of 2026 during a live press conference on Wednesday, July 2, held at Ovation Hollywood.
Kidjo joins an elite group of just nine global recording artists selected this year — including Miley Cyrus, Lyle Lovett, Bone Thugs-N-Harmony, The Clark Sisters, and Intocable. She’s also one of six Grammy Award winners on the list.
Known for her rich fusion of Afrobeat, funk, jazz, and traditional West African sounds, Kidjo’s star is more than personal recognition — it’s a historic milestone for African representation on one of the world’s most iconic entertainment landmarks.
She will be celebrated alongside a diverse list of global talents, including:
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Emily Blunt (UK)
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Deepika Padukone (India)
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Marion Cotillard (France)
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Rachel McAdams (Canada)
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Lea Salonga (Philippines)
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Paulinho da Costa (Brazil)
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Air Supply (Australia)
The selection was made by the Hollywood Walk of Fame Selection Panel under the Chamber of Commerce and later approved by its Board of Directors.
“These talented individuals have made significant contributions to the world of entertainment,” said Peter Roth, chairman of the selection committee. “We are thrilled to honour them with this well-deserved recognition.”
Although the date for Kidjo’s induction ceremony is yet to be confirmed, honorees typically have two years to schedule their official unveiling.
This landmark achievement is already sparking excitement across the continent, inspiring a new generation of African creatives to dream big and go global.
