Legendary actress Lisa Lu was honored Monday with a star on the Hollywood Walk of Fame, making history at 98 as the oldest person ever to receive the distinction, according to ABC7.
Lu, whose six-decade career spans film, television, and stage, was celebrated in a star-studded ceremony on Vine Street, joined by Academy President Janet Yang and Crazy Rich Asians co-star Awkwafina. The honor places her star beside those of Hollywood legends James Stewart and Anna May Wong—the first Asian woman to receive a star.
Awkwafina praised Lu as “a trailblazer” who brings “pride, class, and poise” to all she does. Lu, visibly moved, reflected on her journey: “Today, at 98 years old, I embrace the star as a testament to resilience and perseverance,” she said, per Daily News.
Born in Beijing in 1927 and adopted by renowned Kunqu opera icon Mei Lanfang, Lu began performing traditional Chinese opera as a teen. After relocating to the U.S. in the 1950s, she transitioned to stage and screen, making her television debut in 1958. She went on to win three Golden Horse Awards in the 1970s and appeared in acclaimed films including The Joy Luck Club, The Last Emperor, and The Last Tempest.
Lu’s star ceremony was intentionally held on 5/5/25, a “Square Root Day,” selected by her family for its symbolic elegance and memorability.
“I am deeply honored to stand in support of the next generation of rising Asian actors,” Lu said, calling attention to those who will follow in her footsteps.
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