Hollywood, en.SERU.co.id — David Beckham received his star on the Hollywood Walk of Fame yesterday (12/6/2026), becoming the 2,849th honoree and the first footballer in the Sports Entertainment category. The ceremony at 6819 Hollywood Boulevard drew a mix of celebration and criticism.
Victoria Beckham, their children Romeo, Cruz, and Harper, and close friend Tom Cruise were there to support him. Brooklyn was notably absent. The timing lined up with the start of the 2026 FIFA World Cup in the US, adding extra significance to the moment.
The Hollywood Chamber of Commerce highlighted Beckham’s work growing soccer’s popularity in America. Ana Martinez, the Walk of Fame producer, said it was “a fitting moment” as the country prepares to host the World Cup. She praised his influence on sports, entertainment, and global culture.
Beckham got emotional during his speech. “To make you all proud is my greatest achievement,” he told the crowd. He also called Tom Cruise “the greatest movie star of our time” and shared a sweet memory of watching Jerry Maguire on his first date with Victoria.
While many fans congratulated Beckham, others questioned whether he belonged on the Walk of Fame. Metro.co.uk captured the pushback, reporting that critics had branded the honor a “mockery.”
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Social media comments pulled by the outlet included lines like:
“Star on the Hollywood walk of fame?? Could anyone name a role he acted please.” — @TheOmniFeed
“This makes a mockery of any real talented stars.” — Kitty
“Why would an English footballer get a star on the Hollywood Walk of Fame?” — Hermionegingold
The main complaints? Beckham isn’t a traditional Hollywood actor or musician, and many believe stars on the Walk can essentially be paid for. The Hollywood Chamber of Commerce charges a sponsorship fee around $85,000, to cover creation, installation, and upkeep. That has long fueled the view that it’s more business than pure prestige.
However, Beckham has plenty of defenders too. Supporters point to his decades-long career at Manchester United, Real Madrid, and beyond, plus his role in building Inter Miami CF alongside Lionel Messi. They see the star as recognition for helping put soccer on the map in the United States.
Other athletes, including Muhammad Ali and Magic Johnson, have received stars before, so the precedent exists — even if a footballer getting one still feels fresh to some.
*(Sources: Walk of Fame, Metro.co.uk, ITV, Yahoo Sports, Page Six, People, DW.com)
