Lea Salonga Makes History as First Filipino Awarded Star on Hollywood Walk of Fame
“Rasanya sungguh luar biasa dan seperti mimpi,” Salonga stated, according to Just Jared. “Saya sudah berkali-kali menyusuri jalan ini. Saya pernah menginjak jejak banyak orang terkenal, dan kini giliran orang lain yang menginjak jejak saya. Rasanya sangat pas dengan dunia hiburan.”
For the ceremony, Salonga wore a purple blazer suit accented with embroidery and sequins, paired with matching pump shoes. She styled her hair in her signature pixie cut and wore burgundy makeup.
From Child Star in the Philippines to Broadway Icon
Salonga began her entertainment career as a child singer in the Philippines before transitioning to television and musical stage roles. Her international breakthrough arrived in 1989 when she was cast as Kim in the musical Miss Saigon at London’s West End, according to theatrical records.
That performance earned her the Laurence Olivier Award for Best Actress in a Musical in 1990. When Miss Saigon transferred to Broadway in 1991, Salonga reprised the role and won the Tony Award for Best Actress in a Musical, becoming the first Asian woman to win the category.
Iconic Disney Voice Roles and Later Career
In 1992, Disney selected her to provide the singing voice for Princess Jasmine in the animated film Aladdin, where she performed “A Whole New World” alongside Brad Kane.
She later collaborated with Disney again to voice Fa Mulan in Mulan and Mulan II, performing the song “Reflection.” In 2002, she returned to Broadway and has since maintained a steady presence across theater projects, television, and live concert tours.
Frequently Asked Questions
When did Lea Salonga receive her Hollywood Walk of Fame star?
What makes this achievement historic for the Philippines?
Which Disney princesses did Lea Salonga voice?
Salonga provided the singing voices for Princess Jasmine in Aladdin (1992) and Fa Mulan in Mulan and Mulan II.
What major theater awards has Lea Salonga won?
She won the Laurence Olivier Award for Best Actress in a Musical in 1990 for Miss Saigon in London and the Tony Award for Best Actress in a Musical in 1991 for the Broadway production.
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