Hollywood is set to celebrate one of its most powerful and enduring voices.
On Thursday, February 26, 2026, at 11:30 a.m. PT, legendary actor and director Bill Duke will receive his star on the Hollywood Walk of Fame at 6201 Hollywood Boulevard. The honor marks the 2,837th star in the Motion Pictures category and coincides with Duke’s 83rd birthday — making the occasion a double celebration during Black History Month.
🎤 Ceremony Lineup
- Emcee: Steve Nissen, President & CEO, Hollywood Chamber of Commerce
Guest Speakers:
Glynn Turman – Actor & Walk of Famer
- Jeff & Nicole Friday – American Black Film Festival & Nice Crowd
- Nathalie Duke – President of Duke Entertainment
A Hollywood Legacy Spanning Four Decades
Often referred to as the “Godfather of African American Cinema,” Bill Duke has built an extraordinary career as an actor, director, producer, writer, and humanitarian.
🎬 Behind the Camera
Duke began directing television in the 1980s, working on series such as:
He went on to direct acclaimed films including:
- A Rage in Harlem
- Deep Cover
- Sister Act 2: Back in the Habit
- Not Easily Broken
- A Raisin in the Sun
- Deacons for Defense
He also directed the powerful documentaries Dark Girls and Light Girls, sparking national conversations about identity and colorism.
🎥 In Front of the Camera
Known for his commanding screen presence, Duke has appeared in iconic films such as:
- Car Wash
- American Gigolo
- Commando
- Predator
- Action Jackson
- Menace II Society
- X-Men: The Last Stand
- Mandy
Beyond Film
A father and grandfather, Duke is also the founder of The Duke Media Foundation, established in 2008 to provide media training and mentorship for young people.
He has received a Lifetime Achievement Tribute from the Directors Guild of America and was appointed to the National Endowment for the Humanities by Bill Clinton and to the California State Film Commission by Arnold Schwarzenegger.
📍 Don’t forget — Thursday, February 26, 2026 at 11:30 a.m. PT — 6201 Hollywood Boulevard.
Join the celebration as Hollywood honors a living legend, celebrates his 83rd birthday, and recognizes his lasting impact during Black History Month. 🌟
