The beloved Princess Leia, Carrie Fisher, finally receives her star on the Hollywood Walk of Fame
Star Wars Day was a day of both celebration and remembrance for fans of the beloved science fiction franchise. Yesterday, on May 4, Carrie Fisher, the actress who portrayed the iconic character of Princess Leia, was posthumously awarded a star on the Hollywood Walk of Fame in Los Angeles.
Fisher, who passed away in 2016 at the age of 60, now joins her Star Wars co-stars, Harrison Ford and Mark Hamill, in receiving this prestigious honour. Ford was awarded his star back in 2003, while Hamill received his in 2018. The three stars are located on the same block of Hollywood Boulevard where the original Star Wars movie debuted in 1977.
THEY pic.twitter.com/bdpwtgEVaa
— zed (@vadersanakin) May 4, 2023
Throughout the Star Wars saga, Fisher's character of Leia Organa played a significant role as she transformed from a princess into a powerful leader of the forces of good. Fans of the franchise had long campaigned for Fisher to receive a star on the Walk of Fame, and their wishes were finally granted on Star Wars Day this year.
this star wars day is a special one. today carrie fisher gets honored on the hollywood walk of fame with her own star! carrie didn’t only play a strong woman on the screen, but in real life too. miss you, carrie pic.twitter.com/aibOV6eh6F
— emmy STAR WARS DAY (@DARTHEMMY) May 4, 2023
The award ceremony was attended by a large gathering of fans, as well as some of the franchise's most notable personalities, including droids R2-D2 and C-3PO, a few Stormtroopers, director JJ Abrams, Lucasfilm President Kathleen Kennedy, as well as Luke Skywalker and brother of Princess Leia, Mark Hamill.
Fisher's daughter, Billie Lourd, who also appeared in the recent Star Wars sequels, was on hand to accept the star on behalf of her mother. Wearing a metallic dress with her mother's portrait printed on it, Lourd expressed her pride and joy at the recognition given to her mother. She threw glitter, Fisher's favorite, on the newly unveiled star, and remarked on how her mother's legacy had changed her own perception of the character of Leia, whom she saw as a symbol of strength, grace, wit, and femininity.
The late American actress, writer, and humorist, remains an enduring icon for her work in Hollywood and beyond. She captivated audiences with her portrayals of strong and complex female characters, most notably as the Princess. Fisher's ability to balance vulnerability with toughness and humor made her a beloved figure and a feminist icon.
Carrie Fisher has always spoke up and didn’t conform to the typical hollywood idea of what things should be. She also has encouraged us to speak up. She will finally get her star but she is the brightest star in the whole galaxy herself 💫 #MayThe4thBeWithYou pic.twitter.com/bZfJ1L2G4H
— zed (@vadersanakin) May 4, 2023
Beyond her onscreen work, Fisher was also a respected writer and mental health advocate. Her frank and candid discussions about her struggles with addiction and bipolar disorder helped to destigmatize mental illness and encouraged others to seek treatment. Her autobiographical writing, including the book Postcards from the Edge, also endeared her to readers and demonstrated her wit and literary prowess.
Fisher's untimely death in 2016 at the age of 60 was met with widespread mourning and tributes from fans, friends, and colleagues. Her legacy continues to inspire new generations of fans and performers, who look to her as a trailblazer and role model for her unapologetic authenticity and unyielding spirit.
Hamill delivered an emotional tribute to his late co-star, recalling how they first met when Fisher was just 19. While speaking at the ceremony, Hamill acknowledged the sadness of Fisher's absence, but also emphasized that she would want fans to remember her with joy and laughter.
The Hollywood Walk of Fame, which recognizes luminaries from the world of film, television, music, and other forms of entertainment, is a coveted honor for many performers. A nomination is required to be considered for a star, and a $75,000 fee is now required to create and maintain the star. Despite the high cost, it remains a symbol of great achievement and recognition in the entertainment industry.