Kerry Washington, celebrated actress and producer, has officially cemented her legacy with a star on the Hollywood Walk of Fame. The star, unveiled on Monday, recognizes Washington’s illustrious career in film, television, and production, marking her as one of Hollywood’s most influential figures.
During the ceremony, Washington expressed heartfelt gratitude to her parents, fans, and supporters. “Mom and dad, can you believe it? An actual star?” she said, crediting her parents for instilling in her the courage to dream. Addressing her fans, Washington added, “So many of you are part of how I got here. My prayer today is that my starlight continues to connect me to that light that shines in each of you.”
The ceremony coincided with the upcoming release of Washington’s new film, The Six Triple Eight, written and directed by Tyler Perry, which is set to premiere on Netflix. Perry and Shonda Rhimes, the creator of Scandal, were present at the event, further highlighting Washington’s indelible impact on the entertainment industry.
Washington’s star, the 2,797th on the Walk of Fame, is located near Vine Street and Argyle Avenue, outside the W Hollywood Hotel.
Born on January 31, 1977, in the Bronx, New York, Washington’s artistic journey began during her time at The Spence School in Manhattan, where she performed in school plays. Her first television role came in 1994 with the ABC Afterschool Special, Magical Make-Over. This marked the start of a career that would span decades and encompass a wide range of memorable roles.
Washington’s early television credits included appearances in NYPD Blue, Law & Order, and a recurring role on the A&E legal drama 100 Centre Street. She made her film debut in the 2000 coming-of-age drama Our Song and later starred in notable films such as Ray (2004), where she portrayed Della Bea Robinson, wife of Ray Charles, and The Last King of Scotland (2006), playing the wife of Ugandan dictator Idi Amin.
Her versatility shone through in action-packed roles in Mr. & Mrs. Smith and the Fantastic Four series, as well as her starring role in Spike Lee’s She Hate Me.
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Washington’s career skyrocketed with her portrayal of Olivia Pope in Shonda Rhimes’ political thriller Scandal (2012-2018). Her performance earned her two Emmy nominations for Outstanding Lead Actress in a Drama Series, making her the first Black woman in nearly two decades to receive such recognition in the category.
Beyond Scandal, Washington has been acclaimed for her work in limited series and television films, including Confirmation (2016), where she portrayed Anita Hill, and Little Fires Everywhere (2020), which earned her multiple Emmy nods as both an actress and producer.
In addition to her acting accolades, Washington has proven her prowess as a producer, earning five Emmy nominations and winning in 2020 for Outstanding Live Variety Special for Live in Front of a Studio Audience: All in the Family and Good Times.
Her recent projects include Netflix’s UnPrisoned and The School for Good and Evil, as well as a recurring voice role on The Simpsons. Washington has also wrapped production on Wake Up Dead Man: A Knives Out Mystery, set to premiere on Netflix in 2025.
As Kerry Washington stood on Hollywood Boulevard, surrounded by family, peers, and admirers, she reflected on the journey that led her to this milestone. Her Walk of Fame star not only celebrates her remarkable achievements but also serves as a beacon of inspiration for aspiring artists everywhere.
“This year has been a dream,” she said. “Thank you to everyone who made it possible.”
Kerry Washington’s light continues to shine, illuminating a path of excellence, resilience, and boundless creativity
