Celebs Who Turned Down a Star on the Hollywood Walk of Fame

The Hollywood Walk of Fame represents the highest level of achievement in entertainment. Though many actors and musicians are thrilled to receive a star, some major celebrities have surprisingly turned it down. Their reasons vary, from not wanting the attention to refusing to pay the associated costs. Others were nominated but never officially accepted the honor, so the offer eventually lapsed. This list showcases the most well-known stars who have chosen not to have a star on the famous sidewalk.

Clint Eastwood

Throughout his celebrated career, the famous actor and director has been repeatedly nominated for a star on the Hollywood Walk of Fame. However, he’s always refused the honor and shown little interest in the ceremony itself. The Hollywood Chamber of Commerce has kept a place open for him, just in case he ever decides to accept. Eastwood seems to prefer that his films, like ‘Million Dollar Baby,’ stand as his legacy, and he generally avoids the publicity surrounding awards shows, focusing instead on his work.

Julia Roberts

The celebrated actress was offered a star on the Hollywood Walk of Fame, but she declined. Though nominated both decades ago and recently, she isn’t interested in having a star installed. Despite her fame in movies like ‘Pretty Woman’, Roberts has always valued her privacy and avoided the typical Hollywood spotlight. She made this decision because she prefers to avoid the official procedures and ongoing costs of maintaining a star. Even without one, she remains a highly successful actress.

Madonna

As a huge movie and music fan, I always found it fascinating that Madonna turned down a star on the Hollywood Walk of Fame back in 1990. After ruling the charts for ten years and even proving she could act in ‘Desperately Seeking Susan’, you’d think she’d jump at the chance! But apparently, she just wasn’t interested, and they never asked her again. It’s wild to think that someone with such a massive influence on pop culture doesn’t have a star on that famous sidewalk. Honestly, her impact is so huge, she doesn’t need a plaque in Los Angeles to be remembered!

Prince

Throughout his life, Prince repeatedly refused offers for a star on the Hollywood Walk of Fame. He carefully guarded his public image and didn’t believe he needed a sidewalk tribute. He deserved recognition for his work in music and films like ‘Purple Rain,’ and the Chamber of Commerce confirmed he’d been nominated twice but declined both times. Instead of a star on the Walk of Fame, fans continue to celebrate his life and legacy at his home, Paisley Park.

David Bowie

The legendary musician famously refused a star on the Hollywood Walk of Fame, despite being offered one several times. He didn’t want the recognition, preferring to concentrate on his artistic growth through music and films like ‘Labyrinth’ instead of awards. Even after his death, his estate hasn’t sought to have a star added. He’s celebrated for his groundbreaking creativity, which is more important than any physical memorial.

Al Pacino

I’ve always been a huge fan of Al Pacino, and it feels strange that despite his incredible career – films like ‘The Godfather’ are just iconic, and all the awards he’s rightfully earned – he doesn’t have a star on the Hollywood Walk of Fame yet. Apparently, the Chamber of Commerce requires celebrities to schedule a ceremony within two years of being selected, and for whatever reason, he just hasn’t gotten around to it. It’s a bit sad, honestly, because he’s truly one of the greats, and it’s noticeable that his name isn’t among all the other stars on that famous path.

Robert De Niro

Similar to Al Pacino, this celebrated actor has been nominated for an award many times, but never actually received it. Over the years, he’s been recognized as a potential honoree repeatedly, yet he’s never attended the ceremony. Robert De Niro is often hailed as one of the best actors of his time, known for iconic roles in films like ‘Taxi Driver’ and ‘Raging Bull.’ It’s a frequent topic of conversation among visitors that he doesn’t have a star on the Walk of Fame, but he seems satisfied with the praise he’s received and his impressive film career.

Bruce Springsteen

Bruce Springsteen was nominated for a star on the Hollywood Walk of Fame in 1989, but he never followed through with the official induction. Because he didn’t seem interested, the Hollywood Chamber of Commerce removed his name from consideration. Known for being down-to-earth and prioritizing his music, Springsteen’s impact is best seen in his iconic concerts and albums—like ‘Born in the U.S.A.’—rather than in Hollywood accolades. Despite his massive success, he’s still one of the biggest music stars without a star on the Walk of Fame.

Denzel Washington

This acclaimed, two-time Oscar winner was chosen to receive a star on the Hollywood Walk of Fame years ago, but has never actually attended a ceremony to get it. A highly respected actor with a career lasting decades – known for films like ‘Training Day’ – he hasn’t completed the final steps to claim his star. The space is still reserved for him should he ever decide to hold a dedication. He’s currently focused on his work as an actor and director, and doesn’t seem to prioritize this kind of public recognition.

George Clooney

I’ve always been a big fan of George Clooney, and it’s surprising he doesn’t have a star on the Hollywood Walk of Fame! The Chamber of Commerce nominated him a while back, but he never actually scheduled a ceremony. He’s been huge in movies and TV – I mean, ‘Ocean’s Eleven’ is iconic – and he’s just as well-known for the work he does behind the camera and his charitable efforts as he is for acting. He’s a total Hollywood legend, so it’s definitely noticeable that he hasn’t gone through with the star ceremony yet.

Whitney Houston

The singer was chosen to receive a star on the Hollywood Walk of Fame after her death, but her family has decided to postpone the ceremony. They believe it’s not the right time to honor her legacy, considering the family’s feelings. Though she’s celebrated as one of the most iconic voices ever – famous for songs like those in ‘The Bodyguard’ – many fans are surprised she didn’t already have a star. The possibility of the star being awarded remains open if her family changes their mind.

Muhammad Ali

Boxing icon Muhammad Ali was honored with a star on the Hollywood Walk of Fame, but he had one unusual request: he didn’t want people walking on it. Ali felt it would be disrespectful for anyone he disliked to step on his name, so he insisted his star be placed somewhere it couldn’t be walked on. The Hollywood Chamber of Commerce accommodated his wish, and his star is the only one located on a wall at the Dolby Theatre instead of on the ground.

Cher

Cher earned a star on the Hollywood Walk of Fame in 1983, but she never actually attended the ceremony to receive it. At the time, she was focused on her solo music career and didn’t seem particularly interested in the usual Hollywood traditions. Though she’s a highly celebrated artist – winning an Oscar for ‘Moonstruck’ and releasing many successful albums over the years – her star is notably missing from the sidewalk. She remains a legendary figure in entertainment, one of the most iconic women in the industry, despite not having a plaque on the Walk of Fame.

Jane Fonda

Jane Fonda, the celebrated actress and activist, was nominated for a star on the Hollywood Walk of Fame, but she never arranged the official dedication ceremony. With a distinguished film career including two Academy Awards and memorable roles in films like ‘Klute,’ Fonda has consistently prioritized social and political causes over awards recognition. The Chamber of Commerce has maintained her nomination for years, making her one of the few major Hollywood stars without a star on the Walk of Fame.

Woody Allen

The filmmaker isn’t interested in having a star on the Hollywood Walk of Fame. He’s well-known for avoiding awards shows, even skipping the Oscars when he’s won. He’d rather concentrate on making films – like his classic ‘Annie Hall’ – than on public recognition. He’s never asked for the honor himself, nor allowed anyone to nominate him. This fits with his lifelong habit of going against Hollywood norms.

Jerry Seinfeld

Comedian and actor Jerry Seinfeld reportedly turned down a star on the Hollywood Walk of Fame because he simply wasn’t interested. Best known as the creator and star of the groundbreaking sitcom ‘Seinfeld,’ he’s shared that he doesn’t find much meaning in having his name displayed on a sidewalk. Seinfeld continues to prioritize stand-up comedy and his online work over traditional industry honors. This decision to forgo a star is intentional and reflects his personal feelings about fame and recognition.

Leonardo DiCaprio

The celebrated actor, despite his worldwide fame and iconic roles in films like ‘Titanic’ and ‘Inception’, has never sought a star on the Hollywood Walk of Fame and doesn’t seem interested in getting one. The process requires an application and a fee, which he’s never bothered with. He’s considered a highly reliable box office draw and appears to believe his work speaks for itself. His impact is already secure thanks to his acting career and his dedication to environmental causes.

Brad Pitt

Despite being a huge star, Brad Pitt has never asked for a star on the Hollywood Walk of Fame. While famous for films like ‘Fight Club’ and ‘Moneyball’, he hasn’t followed the usual process of applying to the Hollywood Chamber of Commerce. He generally prefers to stay out of the spotlight, and simply chooses not to participate in this particular Hollywood tradition, even though he’s a major figure in the industry.

Angelina Jolie

Despite a successful film career, including movies like ‘Girl, Interrupted,’ and her dedicated work with the United Nations, the actress and philanthropist has always declined a star on the Hollywood Walk of Fame. She hasn’t pursued the nomination, which requires ongoing financial contributions for upkeep, seemingly preferring to focus on her humanitarian efforts and family. Remarkably, she remains one of the world’s most recognizable women without one.

Steve Jobs

Steve Jobs, Apple’s co-founder, was considered for a star on the Hollywood Walk of Fame in the entertainment and innovation category after his death. However, his family declined the honor and didn’t complete the application process. Jobs revolutionized how we enjoy media with inventions like the iPod and iPhone. The Hollywood Chamber of Commerce understood and respected his family’s wishes, leaving the star location open. This situation shows that even major figures in the tech world can choose whether or not to be recognized in Hollywood.

James Dean

James Dean, the famous actor known for capturing the spirit of teenage rebellion, passed away before he could receive a star on the Hollywood Walk of Fame. After his death, there was talk of honoring him with one for his role in ‘Rebel Without a Cause,’ but an agreement between his family and the Chamber of Commerce was never reached. Despite his brief career, Dean remains a hugely influential figure in film, and his missing star is often noticed and questioned by classic movie fans.

Meryl Streep

Meryl Streep, the actress with the most Oscar nominations ever, was once chosen to receive a star on the Hollywood Walk of Fame in the 1990s. Unfortunately, she never set a date for the star’s unveiling, and the offer expired. While Streep is incredibly talented and famous for films like ‘Sophie’s Choice’ and ‘The Devil Wears Prada,’ she’s one of the few major stars without this particular honor. It seems she isn’t interested in the public ceremony that goes along with receiving a star.

Diane Keaton

Diane Keaton, an Academy Award winner and famous for her role in ‘Annie Hall,’ is a well-loved Hollywood icon with a long and successful career. Despite being nominated for a star on the Hollywood Walk of Fame, she never officially attended a ceremony to receive it. For personal reasons, she also didn’t schedule a star dedication with the Chamber of Commerce, joining other celebrated actors who have chosen not to have a star on the Walk of Fame.

Robert Redford

Robert Redford, the renowned actor and director who created the Sundance Film Festival, surprisingly doesn’t have a star on the Hollywood Walk of Fame. A key figure in independent cinema, known for films like ‘The Way We Were’, Redford has never sought the honor and has consistently championed artistic endeavors outside of mainstream Hollywood. This absence of a star reflects his dedication to independent filmmaking and his belief in film as an art form.

Warren Beatty

Despite a celebrated career spanning decades, the acclaimed actor and director has intentionally avoided seeking a star on the Hollywood Walk of Fame. While he’s received many Academy Award nominations and famously directed the film ‘Reds,’ Beatty is known for carefully choosing his projects and being deeply involved in every aspect of filmmaking. He’s never even applied for a star, making him a uniquely influential Hollywood figure absent from that famous street.

Dustin Hoffman

Dustin Hoffman, a two-time Oscar winner, is a celebrated actor surprisingly missing a star on the Hollywood Walk of Fame. Known for his incredible ability to transform into different characters in films like ‘The Graduate’ and ‘Rain Man’, Hoffman has never sought a star and hasn’t been involved in the nomination process. Despite this, he’s considered one of the greatest actors of his generation, and his powerful performances have cemented his legacy far more than any award or plaque ever could.

Sean Connery

I always felt it was a strange oversight that Sean Connery, the original James Bond, never got a star on the Hollywood Walk of Fame. He had such an incredible, long career – and deservedly won an Oscar for ‘The Untouchables’! He was a truly magnetic, somewhat private man, and I guess he just wasn’t interested in the publicity of something like that. Still, it feels odd that someone so iconic isn’t permanently honored on that famous sidewalk.

Richard Gere

Despite his fame from ‘Pretty Woman’ and a successful acting career filled with leading roles, Richard Gere doesn’t have a star on the Hollywood Walk of Fame. He’s also well-known for his charitable work. Unlike many actors, Gere has never sought the nomination or attended the ceremony needed to receive a star, seemingly prioritizing his activism and personal values over industry recognition. He’s a notable example of a major actor who has chosen to forgo this Hollywood tradition.

Jim Carrey

Jim Carrey, the incredibly funny actor known for movies like ‘The Mask’ and ‘The Truman Show,’ surprisingly doesn’t have a star on the Hollywood Walk of Fame. Despite being a major box office success for years, Carrey has never actually applied for one and hasn’t gone through the official nomination process. He’s recently shared his evolving thoughts on fame and the entertainment world. But his lack of a star doesn’t change the fact that he’s a comedy icon.

Howard Stern

The well-known radio host was offered a star on the Hollywood Walk of Fame but decided to pass on it. Stern, a hugely popular and influential figure in media for decades, has said on the air that he doesn’t want the honor, especially since it requires a financial contribution. He’d rather be remembered for his radio show and the dedicated fans he’s built over the years, making him a rare successful media personality to decline the award.

Robert Plant

Robert Plant, the singer from Led Zeppelin, was offered a star on the Hollywood Walk of Fame but declined it. Widely considered one of rock’s most important singers, he’s also had a thriving career as a solo artist. Plant has consistently avoided the excesses of rock stardom and the business side of music, preferring to be remembered for his music and concerts. His decision to decline the star shows his commitment to the artistic side of music rather than public recognition.

Mick Jagger

Mick Jagger, the legendary singer of The Rolling Stones, surprisingly doesn’t have a star on the Hollywood Walk of Fame. Despite being a global superstar and a hugely influential figure in rock music, he’s never even applied for one. Known for being a smart businessman and maintaining a long career in the spotlight, Jagger has simply never seemed interested in the Walk of Fame or its accompanying ceremony. He remains a musical icon, even without a star on the sidewalk.

Keith Richards

Similar to his bandmate Mick Jagger, this iconic guitarist isn’t interested in having a star on the Hollywood Walk of Fame. Known for his rebellious attitude and innovative guitar playing, Richards has never applied for one and doesn’t seem to care about the recognition. He believes his music speaks for itself and that’s enough, continuing to perform and create without worrying about awards or public monuments.

Bill Murray

Bill Murray, the well-known actor and comedian, surprisingly doesn’t have a star on the Hollywood Walk of Fame. He’s celebrated for his quirky personality and memorable roles in films like ‘Ghostbusters’. Known for being private, Murray avoids traditional publicity and doesn’t use an agent. He’s never sought a star on the Walk of Fame, nor has he ever shown interest in the usual ceremonies. This absence perfectly embodies his independent and unconventional career path.

Mel Gibson

Mel Gibson, the acclaimed actor and director of ‘Braveheart’, surprisingly doesn’t have a star on the Hollywood Walk of Fame. Despite a successful and often turbulent career filled with both popular and critically praised films, he’s never been nominated for inclusion. Gibson has primarily concentrated on his work as a director and actor through his own production company, making his absence from this famous landmark quite noticeable. He continues to be an important figure in the film industry.

Joaquin Phoenix

Joaquin Phoenix, the Oscar-winning actor famous for his powerful roles in movies like ‘Joker’, generally avoids the typical Hollywood fanfare and awards shows. Surprisingly, he’s never even requested a star on the Hollywood Walk of Fame and doesn’t seem interested in having one. He believes his work as an actor and his dedication to social causes should speak for him, making him a highly respected actor of his generation who notably doesn’t have a star on the Walk of Fame.

Daniel Day-Lewis

Daniel Day-Lewis, the only actor to win three Best Actor Academy Awards, surprisingly doesn’t have a star on the Hollywood Walk of Fame. Known for his intense preparation and commitment to his roles – as seen in films like ‘Lincoln’ – Day-Lewis is a very private person and has taken breaks from acting multiple times. He’s never been interested in the publicity and traditions of Hollywood, and his lack of a star reflects his prioritization of artistic skill over fame.

Christian Bale

Christian Bale, the acclaimed actor known for dramatically changing his body for roles in films like ‘The Dark Knight’ and ‘The Fighter,’ doesn’t have a star on the Hollywood Walk of Fame. He’s a well-regarded performer who generally stays away from the usual Hollywood parties and events. Bale himself has never sought the honor, nor does he seem interested in having his name displayed on the sidewalk. He prioritizes his work and family life over traditional symbols of fame, remaining a committed and dedicated actor without one.

Ben Affleck

Despite a decades-long, highly successful career as both an actor and director – including Oscar wins for ‘Good Will Hunting’ and ‘Argo’ – Ben Affleck doesn’t have a star on the Hollywood Walk of Fame. He’s never formally applied for one, and continues to work on prominent films without being recognized on the famous boulevard. While he’s enjoyed considerable success and public attention, this particular honor has eluded him.

Matt Damon

Matt Damon, much like his friend Ben Affleck, doesn’t have a star on the Hollywood Walk of Fame. Despite being a consistently successful actor with popular films like the ‘Bourne’ series, Damon has never sought one and isn’t interested in the process of getting inducted. He prefers to keep a low profile, and has simply chosen not to participate in the Walk of Fame tradition, even though he remains a major star.

Will Smith

Will Smith, the star of ‘The Fresh Prince of Bel-Air’ and a hugely popular actor and musician, surprisingly doesn’t have a star on the Hollywood Walk of Fame. Despite decades of success and numerous hit movies, he’s never actually gone through the process of applying for one. Though he’s won many awards, his name isn’t featured on the famous sidewalk, even though he remains a major figure in the entertainment industry.

Ryan Gosling

Ryan Gosling, the acclaimed actor from films like ‘La La Land’ and ‘Drive’, doesn’t have a star on the Hollywood Walk of Fame. He’s known for carefully choosing his roles and keeping his personal life out of the spotlight. Unlike many actors, Gosling has never even asked for a star or gone through the public ceremony to get one. Despite being one of the most popular and well-regarded actors of his generation, he seems to prioritize his work over seeking awards and public recognition.

Jude Law

Despite a successful career in many big Hollywood movies – including roles in films like ‘The Talented Mr. Ripley’ and ‘Sherlock Holmes’ – British actor Jude Law doesn’t have a star on the Hollywood Walk of Fame. He hasn’t sought one, and continues to work steadily in both film and theater, balancing projects in America and the UK. He’s a well-known actor who has simply chosen to forgo this particular honor.

Edward Norton

Edward Norton, the celebrated actor from films like ‘Fight Club’ and ‘American History X’, doesn’t have a star on the Hollywood Walk of Fame. He’s well-known for being a dedicated actor who sometimes clashes with major film studios. Norton himself has never sought the publicity that comes with a Walk of Fame star, preferring to concentrate on his acting career and his work for environmental and social causes. Despite his talent, he remains one of the few actors of his generation without one.

Clive Owen

Despite a celebrated career in both independent and mainstream films, including his breakthrough role in ‘Closer’, British actor Jude Law doesn’t have a star on the Hollywood Walk of Fame. He’s never sought the honor, and isn’t interested in the ceremony, preferring to focus on his work and maintain a professional approach. He’s a leading actor who has simply chosen not to participate in this particular Hollywood tradition.

Ralph Fiennes

Ralph Fiennes, the acclaimed actor from films like ‘Schindler’s List’ and the ‘Harry Potter’ series, doesn’t have a star on the Hollywood Walk of Fame. A classically trained stage and film actor, he’s never expressed any desire to receive one. He’s considered one of the best actors of his generation, and his reputation rests on the strength and variety of his work, not on physical awards.

Gary Oldman

I can’t believe Gary Oldman – you know, the incredible actor from ‘The Dark Knight’ and ‘Darkest Hour’ – doesn’t have a star on the Hollywood Walk of Fame! Everyone considers him one of the best actors working today, but apparently he’s never even applied for one. It totally makes sense though, because he’s always seemed way more focused on the work itself, on being a great actor, than on being a celebrity. It’s just strange to think of such a legendary figure missing from that famous sidewalk.

George Michael

Despite being a worldwide superstar, the singer never received a star on the Hollywood Walk of Fame while he was alive. He deserved recognition for both his successful solo career and his work with the group Wham! Sadly, even after his death, his estate hasn’t pursued a nomination. He was a private person who often struggled with the pressures of fame. However, his fans continue to cherish his music and remember his incredible legacy through his songs and videos.

Robert Duvall

Robert Duvall, the acclaimed actor from films like ‘The Godfather’ and ‘Apocalypse Now,’ is surprisingly missing a star on the Hollywood Walk of Fame. A major figure in American cinema for over 60 years, Duvall has never asked for one, despite his significant impact on the film industry. He’s known for being down-to-earth and committed to his craft, and remains a hugely important actor even without a star on the sidewalk.

George Lucas

George Lucas, the mind behind ‘Star Wars’ and ‘Indiana Jones’, doesn’t have his own star on the Hollywood Walk of Fame. Though characters from his films do, Lucas himself never requested one. A truly groundbreaking filmmaker, he revolutionized how movies are made and always remained independent of the usual Hollywood practices. His lack of a star reflects his singular career and his status as a visionary.

Share your thoughts on these celebrities and their decisions in the comments.

2026-02-12 09:51