David Beckham is pleased as punch with his Hollywood Walk of Fame star – but fans have asked why an English footballer was awarded one
David Beckham unveiled his Hollywood Walk of Fame star on Friday – but it seems he can’t keep it away from it after he was spotted taking a selfie next to it the day after.
The 51-year-old posted the snap to his Instagram stories with the caption “had to check it was still there”. Though eyebrows have been raised as to why the former England footballer was given a star in the first place.
Stars are usually reserved for actors or those in the entertainment industry, such as Marilyn Monroe, Charlie Chaplin, Madonna and Elvis Presley. Sporting greats like Muhammad Ali, Billie Jean King and Shaquille O’Neal have been honoured. However, they are all American.
One fan said on social media that David getting one “makes a mockery of real talented stars”. Another asked: “Star on the Hollywood walk of fame?? Could anyone name a role he acted please.”
A third person wrote: “It’s a little bit confusing sporting legends like David Beckham on the Hollywood Walk of Fame?????? thought it was to honour movie stars not the #lagalaxy.”
“I’m a Beckham fan, and I love the Walk of Fame, but I don’t get why David is getting one?” questioned a fourth. While a fifth pointed out: “Star on the Walk of Fame doesn’t mean anything anymore because anyone can have one; all they need is for people to nominate them and then pay for it themselves.”
Indeed, according to the Hollywood Walk of Fame website, recipients of a star have to nominate themselves or be nominated by someone. There is a $275 (£205) application fee.
Once you are selected the website states: “There is an $85,000 (£73,000) sponsorship fee upon selection. This sponsorship fee is used to cover the creation and installation of the star, inauguration of the honoree, and life-time maintenance of the Walk of Fame landmark.”
Notable Hollywood greats that don’t have a star include Al Pacino, Leonardo DiCaprio and Brad Pitt. While reality stars like Kim Kardashian are known to have been rejected by the committee.
Walk of Fame producer Ana Martinez explained why David had been appointed one. Recognised under the Sports Entertainment category, she explained: “Beckham’s role in elevating soccer’s profile in America and his lasting influence on sports, entertainment, and global culture make this honour especially meaningful.”
As well as his football career, which has spanned Europe and North America, she pointed out he also came under the entertainment category as the founder of Studio 99 that has created several documentary features, including the Netflix hit Beckham.
Accepting the star alongside his family and pal Tom Cruise, David gave a heartfelt speech and said: “I’ve always been a dreamer, but I could never have imagined that an honour like this would come to a working-class English soccer player like me.”
He became emotional as he added: “My beautiful children who are the reason I get out of bed in the morning. Kids, I hope you bring my grandchildren here one day and tell them about a boy who dreamed big.” Though eldest son Brooklyn – who is estranged from his family – was nowhere to be seen.
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