Roberta Flack, the legendary singer behind timeless hits like Killing Me Softly with His Song and The First Time Ever I Saw Your Face, was honored with a star on the Hollywood Walk of Fame in 1999. However, a shocking mystery surrounds her tribute—it has never been unveiled, even after 25 years. So, why has Flack’s star remained in limbo for so long? The truth may surprise you.
A Long-Awaited Honor That Never Came
In 1999, Roberta Flack was officially selected to receive a star on the iconic Hollywood Walk of Fame. This recognition was meant to celebrate her incredible career and contributions to music. However, unlike other honorees whose stars are quickly installed and unveiled in grand ceremonies, Flack’s star has yet to be placed on the famous boulevard.
The Hollywood Walk of Fame’s Hidden Rules
Many fans don’t realize that receiving a star on the Walk of Fame isn’t just about talent and fame. Even after being selected, several conditions must be met before the star is installed. One major requirement is the hefty $75,000 fee (as of 2025) that must be paid to cover the costs of installation, maintenance, and the induction ceremony.
While major celebrities often have their stars sponsored by studios, record labels, or fan groups, some honorees struggle with funding. Reports suggest that Flack’s team never completed the process by submitting the necessary payment or scheduling the installation, leaving her star in an indefinite state of delay.
Health Issues and Career Focus
Another factor in the delay could be Flack’s personal circumstances. The singer, now 86 years old, has faced health challenges in recent years, including a battle with ALS (amyotrophic lateral sclerosis), which has affected her ability to sing and perform. It’s possible that the Walk of Fame ceremony was never a priority for her, especially as she focused on her music and personal life instead.
Could Roberta Flack’s Star Still Be Unveiled?
Despite the delay, Flack’s star isn’t entirely lost. The Hollywood Chamber of Commerce, which oversees the Walk of Fame, typically gives honorees a five-year window to schedule their ceremony. However, special exceptions have been made for stars who, like Flack, have faced unique circumstances. If her representatives or fans rally behind the cause, the star could still be placed on the famous sidewalk shortly.
Fans Demand Recognition
Roberta Flack’s influence on the music industry is undeniable. Many fans believe she deserves her rightful place alongside other legends on Hollywood Boulevard. In recent years, supporters have taken to social media, urging the Hollywood Walk of Fame Committee to finalize her long-overdue honor.
The Final Word
While the exact reason behind the delay remains a mix of financial, logistical, and personal factors, one thing is clear—Roberta Flack is a music icon whose contributions deserve to be recognized. Whether or not her star finally makes its way onto the Hollywood Walk of Fame, her legacy is already set in stone in the hearts of her fans.
Could 2025 be the year her star is finally unveiled? Only time will tell, but the demand for recognition has never been louder.