Lisa Lu, the celebrated actress whose remarkable career has spanned over six decades across film, television, and stage, received her star on the Hollywood Walk of Fame on Monday. At the age of 98, Lu becomes the oldest actor to ever receive this prestigious honour.
The unveiling ceremony was attended by Janet Yang, president of the Academy of Motion Pictures Arts and Sciences, and Lu’s Crazy Rich Asians co-star Awkwafina, who lauded Lu as a “trailblazer” whose contributions extend beyond the arts to society itself.
Awkwafina remarked, “Everything Lisa Lu has done has opened the doors for us, so I’m extremely grateful to be there to witness her receiving her star on the Walk of Fame – a truly symbolic achievement for her and everyone who has followed in her footsteps.”
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Visibly moved by the outpouring of support, Lu noted the presence of many former colleagues, including several actresses from the iconic film The Joy Luck Club. Reflecting on the honor, Lu stated, “I embrace this star as a testament to resilience and perseverance. I am deeply honored to stand in support of the next generation of rising Asian actors, whose paths I hope will shine even brighter.”
Lu revealed that she had previously declined the honor, explaining, “I couldn’t bear the thought of anyone walking on my name.” However, at 98, her perspective has shifted: “Today, it’s 98 years old. I embrace the star as a testament to resilience and perseverance.”
Born in Beijing in 1927, Lu’s career began in Kunqu opera, following her parents’ footsteps. Her journey took her to Taiwan during the Chinese Civil War and eventually to Los Angeles in 1956. There, she joined the Pasadena Playhouse, making her stage debut in 1958. Throughout her illustrious career, Lu has garnered numerous accolades, including three Golden Horse Awards, Taiwan’s highest film honor, for her performances in The Arch, The Empress Dowager, and The 14 Amazons.
Lu’s filmography boasts a diverse range of acclaimed projects, including The Last Emperor, The Joy Luck Club, and, more recently, Crazy Rich Asians. Even in her nineties, she has remained active, appearing in films like The Disappearance of Mrs. Wu and the Hulu series Death and Other Details.
Janet Yang emphasized Lu’s enduring impact, saying, “At 98, Lisa Lu has been acting longer than many people live. She is truly a living legend. She has graced our screen for decades – initially as a beautiful ingenue, and then frequently as a formidable matriarch. In each role, she brings immense presence and elegance. It is hard to imagine The Last Emperor, or The Joy Luck Club, or Crazy Rich Asians without her.”
Lu’s star, the 2,811th on the Hollywood Walk of Fame, holds a significant placement next to that of Anna May Wong, the first Asian woman to receive the honor. This proximity was noted by Ana Martinez, Walk of Fame producer, who stated, “It is a fitting tribute to her talent and legacy in paving the way for diversity in film.”
