The unveiling of Alan Cumming's star on the Hollywood Walk of Fame delivered a major surprise for fans, not merely for honouring the acclaimed actor but for the identity of his special guest. The 60-year-old Scottish performer, a recipient of five Emmy Awards, two Tony Awards, and a BAFTA, was joined in celebration by Monica Lewinsky, whose appearance cemented their long-standing, close friendship.
An Unforgettable Ceremony with Unexpected Guests
Alan Cumming cut a dazzling figure at the event, dressed in a bright turquoise suit jacket and matching shorts. However, it was Monica Lewinsky, 52, who nearly stole the spotlight in a bold red pantsuit. The pair shared a sweet on-stage kiss, and Lewinsky delivered a heartfelt speech in honour of Cumming, visibly moving the audience. Also present was Brian Cox, the 79-year-old star of Succession, who gave a speech celebrating his fellow Scot before the unusual trio posed for photographs on the newly installed star.
The ceremony reached a playful climax when Cumming dropped to his knees in front of his star for a hilarious candid snapshot, with Lewinsky and Cox looking on with amusement. The entire moment left attendees and fans blinking in disbelief at the unlikely, yet evidently genuine, camaraderie on display.
A Friendship Forged Beyond the Headlines
The bond between Cumming and Lewinsky is deeper than many realise, despite the actor having spoken about it publicly before. He first revealed the extent of their closeness during a 2016 appearance on Watch What Happens Live. "She is really one of the kindest, most loyal, loving, tender, funny girls I’ve ever known. I mean, I think she’s really one of my best friends," Cumming told host Andy Cohen. He added, "Yeah. And she’s been at my wedding. She knows my family."
Cumming explained that he met Lewinsky approximately 16 years prior at a Marie Claire party, and they have been firm friends ever since. In another interview with the New York Daily News while promoting his memoir, he praised her character, stating, "She’s absolutely one of the most loving, fun, clever, tender people." He went on to commend her resilience: "The fact that she’s been able to remain such an amazing person with all that horrible bile that was heaped upon her as a young woman is testament to the person she is."
A Career of Remarkable Range Honoured
Walk of Fame producer Ana Martinez issued a statement lauding Cumming's prolific career. "The Hollywood Chamber of Commerce is proud to welcome actor Alan Cumming to the Hollywood Walk of Fame," she said. "As we step into the new year, we’re thrilled to honour the incomparable Alan Cumming with a Walk of Fame star. Alan’s remarkable range, fearless artistry, and dedication to his craft have captivated audiences around the world."
Martinez described him as a "trailblazer, creative polymath, renaissance man, maverick, master of reinvention, and beyond eclectic." Cumming first rose to prominence three decades ago with a celebrated performance in Hamlet in London's West End. He later won a Tony Award for his iconic role as the Master of Ceremonies in the Broadway revival of Cabaret.
His film career includes memorable parts such as the flamboyant villain Boris in GoldenEye, the eccentric Sandy Frink in Romy and Michele’s High School Reunion, and Nightcrawler in X2: X-Men United. Most recently, he has taken on the role of host for the popular US reality competition series The Traitors, adding another successful venture to his diverse résumé.
