Award-winning actress and singer Lea Salonga became the first Filipina to receive a star on the Hollywood Walk of Fame, capping a celebrated career that has spanned Broadway, music, and film.
“What an extraordinary journey this has been,” Salonga said during the ceremony, expressing pride and gratitude for the milestone moment.
A Career Without a Map
Salonga reflected on the early days of her career, when representation on the world’s biggest stages was scarce. “When I began my career, I didn’t see very many people who looked like me, doing the things I dreamed of doing on the world’s biggest stages and screens. There wasn’t an obvious road,” she shared.
She praised those who believed in her talent and helped open doors throughout her journey. “I was incredibly fortunate that there were people who opened doors for me, who took chances on me and who saw what I might be capable of.”
Broadway and Beyond
Salonga’s career includes standout achievements across multiple entertainment platforms:
- Won the Tony Award for Best Actress in a Musical in 1991 for her role in Miss Saigon
- Starred in several Broadway productions and released numerous albums
- Lent her singing voice to Princess Jasmine in Disney’s Aladdin
A Disney Reunion
Friend and Disney colleague Ming-Na Wen joined Salonga for the unveiling ceremony. Wen provided the speaking voice for Mulan, while Salonga supplied the singing voice for the title character in Disney’s 1998 animated film.
“I’m so happy I can be here to sing your praises. Not really singing. That’s for my sister there. Don’t worry… haha!” Wen said.
Salonga was named a Disney Legend in 2011 for her work on both films. More recently, she performed alongside several other Disney Princesses at D23.
A Heartfelt Thank You
Salonga acknowledged the progress she has witnessed in the entertainment industry while accepting her star. “And over the years, I have watched that world begin to change. Not enough, not completely, but it has changed,” she said.
She closed her remarks with a heartfelt expression of gratitude in Tagalog , “Maraming Maraming Salamat,” which means “thank you very, very much.”
The ceremony celebrated Salonga’s achievements and cemented her historic place as the first Filipina honored with a star on the Hollywood Walk of Fame.