The News
Meghan Markle’s Hollywood Walk of Fame Dream Denied
Meghan Markle has sparked controversy at the Deleon-E office after the CEO refused to cover the $75,000 fee required for her to receive a star on the Hollywood Walk of Fame.
The disagreement between Meghan and the agency arose when the agency turned down an offer to secure her a spot on the prestigious Walk of Fame.
The selection committee for the Walk of Fame, made up of past honorees, meticulously selects new recipients from a vast pool of nominations.
Established in 1960, the Hollywood Walk of Fame boasts over 2,700 stars set in the sidewalks across 15 blocks of Hollywood Boulevard and 3 blocks of Vine Street in Los Angeles.
Beyond being a popular tourist destination, the Walk of Fame is a unique honor that fans can share with their favorite celebrities.
Anna Martinez, the producer of the Walk of Fame ceremonies, highlighted in a feature published by Billboard in May that this award stands out from accolades like Oscars, Grammys, or Tonys, as it is an interactive honor placed on the sidewalk for fans to enjoy.
Honorees are chosen from six categories including motion pictures, television, live theater, performance, radio, recording, and sports entertainment.
Recent reports confirm that Macaulay Culkin was awarded a star on the Walk of Fame this week.
In contrast, Meghan Markle faced rejection from the organizers who deemed her lacking the necessary star power in the entertainment industry.
Culkin, known for his roles in iconic films such as Home Alone and Richie Rich, expressed his gratitude during the Hollywood ceremony, thanking the Walk of Fame committee for the recognition.
He emphasized the enduring popularity of Home Alone, a film cherished by families worldwide year after year.
On the other hand, Meghan Markle's nomination was reportedly revoked for two main reasons.
Firstly, nominees must have at least five years of experience in the relevant category and a track record of charitable contributions, criteria which Meghan does not meet.
Her charitable work has been questioned, and her Netflix movie is only a year old, further complicating her eligibility.
Secondly, Meghan's refusal to pay the required fee for her star placement led to a dispute with the agency, as she expected the cost to be covered by WNE.
Sources indicate that the $75,000 fee, as of 2023, is collected upon selection to cover the expenses of creating and installing the star, as well as maintaining the Walk of Fame.
Typically, the nominating organization, such as a fan club or film studio, covers the fee.
Meghan's situation in Hollywood has been challenging, with few willing to associate with her and several A-listers distancing themselves from her.
Notably, prominent figures like George Clooney, Prince Harry, his wife, and Kevin Costner have appeared to distance themselves from Meghan.
While many in Hollywood enjoy interactions with the royal family, they seem reluctant to align themselves with Meghan, potentially jeopardizing future invitations and collaborations.
Meghan's path to stardom on the Walk of Fame seems uncertain as the rift with the agency persists, leaving her aspirations unfulfilled.