Country music star and popular television personality Blake Shelton received his star on the Hollywood Walk of Fame on Friday, May 12, and used the occasion to express heartfelt emotions about his marriage to singer Gwen Stefani and to remember his late brother, Richie.
In his acceptance speech, Shelton, who gained fame on NBC's "The Voice," shared that marrying Stefani, the iconic "Hollaback Girl" singer, remains one of his proudest life achievements. "This is just icing on the cake," he said, adding, "I love you so much, and that's the great thing that's happened along this journey."
Stefani reciprocated her husband's feelings, showering praises on Shelton during her stage appearance. She described him as a humble, genuine, and unique individual whose relatable personality has endeared him to many. "The reason Blake Shelton is here today on the Hollywood Walk of Fame is because you are part of the country dream, the Hollywood dream and you are part of the American Dream," she said. Closing her tribute, she added, "And everybody knows you are my dream come true. I love you."
Shelton, who was honored for his contributions to both country music and television, took the time to pay tribute to his late brother Richie, who tragically died in a car accident over three decades ago. Sharing a conversation he had with his mother, he said, "She says to me, 'I wish Richie could've been here to see this and everything that you've done.' So I dedicate my star on this Walk of Fame to my brother Richie."
Ana Martinez, the Hollywood Walk of Fame producer, expressed admiration for Shelton's career, which began when he was just 17. She praised his ability to entertain audiences on "The Voice" with his humor and charm fans with his soulful country voice.
Shelton's star is the 2,755th to grace the famed Hollywood Walk of Fame, a testament to his enduring popularity in the worlds of music and television. The heartfelt tributes shared by Shelton and Stefani during the ceremony were reported by People magazine.