David Beckham Gets a Walk of Fame Star, Fans Ask: How Is That Possible?

JAKARTA - David Beckham doesn't seem to be satisfied with enjoying his new star on the Hollywood Walk of Fame, the sidewalk of awards for entertainment figures in Hollywood. A day after the inauguration, the former England captain came back and took a photo next to his own name.

Launching a report by The Mirror, quoted on Monday, June 15, Beckham uploaded the photo to Instagram Stories with the caption, "I have to check if it's still there".

The moment looked light-hearted. Beckham was clearly proud. However, on social media, some fans were busy questioning the reason why the English footballer got a Walk of Fame star.

Until now, the Walk of Fame has been more closely associated with entertainment figures such as Marilyn Monroe, Charlie Chaplin, Madonna, and Elvis Presley. A number of sports figures have also received stars, including Muhammad Ali, Billie Jean King, and Shaquille O'Neal. However, they are from the United States.

A number of fan comments quoted by The Mirror questioned the decision. Some considered that the award of a star to Beckham made the Walk of Fame even looser. There were also those who asked sarcastically, what kind of film role did Beckham play.

The doubts were also widened because the Walk of Fame procedure is not only about popularity. According to the Hollywood Walk of Fame website, prospective recipients can nominate themselves or be nominated by others. There is a registration fee of 275 US dollars.

If elected, there is a sponsorship fee of 85,000 US dollars. The funds are used to make and install stars, hold inauguration events, and maintain the Walk of Fame area.

Several big Hollywood actors such as Al Pacino, Leonardo DiCaprio, and Brad Pitt don't even have stars. Meanwhile, Kim Kardashian was once said to have been rejected by the committee.

The Walk of Fame producer, Ana Martinez, quoted by The Mirror, explained that Beckham entered through the Sports Entertainment or sports entertainment category. According to Ana Martinez, Beckham has a big role in raising the popularity of football in the United States.

"Beckham's role in raising the profile of football in America and his long-term influence on the sport, entertainment and global culture make this award so meaningful," said Ana Martinez.

Beckham is also considered to be in the entertainment industry because he founded Studio 99. The production house has made a number of documentaries, including the Beckham series on Netflix.

When receiving the star, Beckham was present with his family and friends, Tom Cruise. He delivered an emotional speech.

"I've always been a dreamer, but I never imagined an award like this would be given to an English footballer from a working-class family like mine," Beckham said.

He also hopes that one day his grandson will be taken to that place and told about a child who dared to dream big.

However, his eldest son, Brooklyn Beckham, was not seen present. The Mirror said Brooklyn was drifting away from his family.