Prince, the iconic "Purple Rain" singer, was offered a star on the Hollywood Walk of Fame twice during his lifetime but declined both opportunities. The Hollywood Chamber of Commerce recently announced the honorees for the Hollywood Walk of Fame Class of 2025, and among the distinguished recipients is the late musician, joining the ranks of Keith Urban, Jane Fonda, and David Beckham.
Peter Roth, Chairman of the Walk of Fame Selection Committee, expressed his excitement about the announcement, stating, "The Walk of Fame has made history again! I am thrilled to announce the distinguished honorees who will grace the iconic Walk of Fame in the Class of 2025. Each honoree truly embodies the essence of excellence in their respective fields. The committee and I cannot wait to see our honorees becoming part of this world-famous walkway!"
Despite the posthumous honor, Prince had turned down the chance to have his name immortalized on the Hollywood Walk of Fame twice. The offers came in the 1990s and again around 2014 or 2015. Ana Martinez, the producer of the Walk of Fame ceremonies, told The Wrap, "He was on my wish list. But he felt that it wasn't the right time."
Prince, known for his unparalleled musical talent and enigmatic persona, was a private individual who often shunned the spotlight. His decision to decline the Walk of Fame star aligns with his known preference for keeping his personal life and public recognition separate. Unfortunately, he passed away on April 21, 2016, before he could reconsider the honor.
The Walk of Fame can grant a star posthumously five years after a performer's death. In Prince's case, he will receive his star over eight years after his passing. While an official date for the induction ceremony has not yet been set, Martinez clarified that Prince's family and estate have two years to schedule the event before the offer expires.
Prince's death at the age of 57 shocked the world. He was found alone and unresponsive in an elevator at his Paisley Park studio compound. The Carver County Sheriff's Office reported, "They found an unresponsive adult male in the elevator. First responders attempted to provide lifesaving CPR, but were unable to revive the victim. He was pronounced deceased at 10:07 am."
Carver County Attorney Mark Metz later revealed that Prince died from an accidental overdose of a painkiller laced with fentanyl. Authorities believe he thought he was taking Vicodin, but the drug was unknowingly laced with the potent opioid, leading to his untimely death.
Prince's influence on the music industry and pop culture is immeasurable. His innovative sound, flamboyant style, and boundary-pushing performances earned him a place among the greatest artists of all time. His posthumous induction into the Hollywood Walk of Fame is a testament to his enduring legacy and the impact he made on generations of fans and musicians.