Culture Culture 6 min read

STORIES BEHIND THE STARS

Hollywood Walk of Fame: take a stroll down 10 stars and their backstories

Image: Ahmet Yalçınkaya

The Hollywood Walk of Fame began in 1958 as a way to celebrate the best of the best in showbiz. Stretching along Hollywood Boulevard and Vine Street, this sidewalk superstar tribute honors actors, musicians, directors, and even a few surprises. To receive a star, celebs are nominated, a fee is paid, and they must attend the big reveal. With over 2,600 stars, it’s the ultimate stroll down memory lane for entertainment lovers. In this article, we’ve gathered ten names that received a star. From the fictional to the very real, here are 10 names that have a star on the Boulevard and an anecdote to go with it!

1
Mickey Mouse: first fictional character

Image: Skitterphoto

Mickey Mouse, the iconic character created by Walt Disney, became the first fictional character to receive a star on the Hollywood Walk of Fame. Honored in 1978, Mickey’s star celebrates his influence on entertainment and his status as a cultural icon.

The ceremony marked the 50th anniversary of Mickey’s debut in Steamboat Willie , a milestone in animation history. The star is located at 6925 Hollywood Boulevard, a fitting tribute to the mouse who built an empire. Mickey's star paved the way for other beloved fictional characters to be recognized. Animation also holds a special place in Hollywood’s heart!

2
Joanne Woodward: first to be photographed

Image: Noom Peerapong

The beginning of the Walk of Fame was a process rather than a moment, which is why we cannot appoint a single person as the first one to receive this honor. However, Joanne Woodward, an accomplished actress of the 1950s, was the first person ever photographed with a star on the Walk of Fame.

Awarded in 1960, she was part of the very first group of stars to be unveiled. Her star, located at 6801 Hollywood Boulevard, honors her remarkable career in film and television, including her Academy Award-winning performance in The Three Faces of Eve . The image of her kneeling beside her star became an iconic moment in Hollywood history and it was the moment that set the future ceremony tradition around the stars!

3
Gene Autry: how many?

Image: Colton Jones

Known as the "Singing Cowboy," Gene Autry is the only entertainer with not one, not two, not even three… but five stars on the Hollywood Walk of Fame! What an accomplishment, don’t you think?

His stars are scattered along Hollywood Boulevard and each one of them represents his contributions to different areas of entertainment: film, television, music, radio, and live performance. Autry’s career spanned decades, and he was a pioneer in popularizing country music and Western films. With so much on his resume, five stars are suddenly not enough!

4
Harrison Ford: which one of them?

Image: Ekaterina Belinskaya

The name "Harrison Ford" appears twice on the Hollywood Walk of Fame, but this is not like Gene Auntry’s case. The two "Ford" stars honor two different individuals. Do you know who they are?

The first star, located at 6665 Hollywood Boulevard, belongs to the silent film actor Harrison Ford, who was active in the early 20th century. The second star, located at 6801 Hollywood Boulevard, honors the modern-day actor known for his roles in Star Wars and Indiana Jones .

Despite sharing the same name, these stars commemorate different careers. It’s a quirky detail that adds an intriguing layer of Hollywood history to the Walk of Fame, don’t you think?

5
Bugs Bunny: what’s up, walk of fame?

Image: Nate Biddle

What’s up, doc? Bugs Bunny hopped onto the Hollywood Walk of Fame in 1985, making him one of the most famous cartoon characters to get a star. Voiced by the incredible Mel Blanc, Bugs is known for his snappy comebacks and carrot-chomping swagger.

His star, located at 7007 Hollywood Boulevard, celebrates his role as the ultimate animated troublemaker. Bugs is so much more than just a cartoon character, he has brought laughter and joy to many generations. His star is a fitting tribute to the bunny with brains, who said the Hollywood Walk of Fame was just for real-life entertainers?

6
Ray Bradbury: writing his way to the stars

Image: freddie marriage

Just as fictional characters can have a great impact on Hollywood, so can writers. After all, writers and their work have inspired many movies and series. True as that can be, only two writers have stars on the Walk of Fame.

Ray Bradbury, the literary genius behind Fahrenheit 451 and The Martian Chronicles , got his own star on the Walk of Fame in 2002 . Bradbury’s imagination took us to distant planets and dystopian futures, and Hollywood couldn’t help but take notice. His star at 6644 Hollywood Boulevard honors his profound influence on movies and TV through his books. Only two novelists have stars on the Walk, and Bradbury’s spot is well-deserved. Curious about the other novelist with a star? It’s Sidney Sheldon!

7
Disneyland: a magical addition

Image: Aubrey Odom

If you thought a fictional character receiving a star was a bit unusual, wait until you find out that even some corporations have their own star! But it’s for a good reason, trust us!

Disneyland, the happiest place on Earth, got its own star on the Walk of Fame in 2005. Though it’s not technically on the Walk (city rules, go figure), the star sits right next to it, near Disney’s Soda Fountain on Hollywood Boulevard.

Opened in 1955, the park is a cornerstone of entertainment history, which is why it has received a star. Even without a spot on the official Walk, Disneyland’s star shines just as bright. It’s the ultimate fairy-tale ending!

8
Julia Louis-Dreyfus: a star with a funny twist

Image: cottonbro studio

Now, you haven’t heard the quirkiest detail. The Hollywood Walk of Fame is a place of honor, but that doesn’t mean it’s free of mistakes.

In 2010, Julia Louis-Dreyfus, the comedy queen from Seinfeld and Veep , received her star on the Hollywood Walk of Fame. But here’s the kicker: They misspelled her name as "Julia Luis Dreyfus" at first!

The mistake was quickly fixed, and it became a hilarious story. But a star for a comedian like her couldn’t go without a funny anecdote. Now, her star at 6250 Hollywood Boulevard is spelled correctly and honors her amazing TV career.

9
Dick Van Dyke: spelling erratum

Image: Annie Spratt

Dick Van Dyke, the man who made us all want to sing and dance, received his Walk of Fame star in 1993. But, oops! They misspelled his name initially too! His star read "Vandyke" when it was first installed, but don’t worry the mistake was soon fixed.

The mix-up was corrected, and his star at 7021 Hollywood Boulevard now proudly displays his name the right way. Van Dyke’s star honors his legendary career in TV and film, from Mary Poppins to The Dick Van Dyke Show . The little hiccup just adds to the fun-loving spirit of his legacy. After all, if anyone can laugh off a typo, it’s Dick Van Dyke!

10
Lassie: everyone’s best friend

Image: Kanashi

Who didn’t wish to have a dog like Lassie at home? Lassi is the most famous collie in the world and she got her star on the Hollywood Walk of Fame in 1960. Well, at least the character did because, spoiler alert, Lassie was played by many dogs!

Lassie’s star, located at 6368 Hollywood Boulevard, honors her role as TV’s favorite four-legged hero. She’s one of only four dogs to receive a star, and honestly, she deserves it for all the lives she’s "saved" on screen.

The star isn’t just for one dog, it’s for every amazing canine that played Lassie over the years. It was only fair that a man’s best friend received a star on such an iconic street!

General General 6 min read

A slice of America

The great American pie road trip: 10 must-try flavors

Image: Maksim Goncharenok

Americans love pies and with good reason! They come in all kinds of shapes and forms. From basic ingredients like chocolate to riskier ones like a cheddar crust (yes, that is very much a thing!). Each state in our country has found a way to take a classic pie and come up with its own unique version of it , and even create new pies altogether. Now, in an attempt to take a culinary road trip, we’ve gathered 10 pies that are big in 10 different states. Will your state make the list? Are you willing to try any of these? Keep reading and see for yourself! Enjoy the ride!

1
Massachusetts - Apple pie with a twist

Image: Priscilla Du Preez 🇨🇦

Apple pie is the nation’s pie—it’s the classic dessert served on the 4th of July, so it doesn’t belong to any particular state. However, Massachusetts thought the classic recipe could do with a twist and they went all the way: Apple pie with a cheddar crust .

This may sound unusual, but it’s actually quite a popular recipe in the Bay State. Some choose to fill the pie with the cheese, while others prefer to lay some slices on top and bake it until a crust forms. In any case, this one is only for those who keep their minds and palates open to new experiences. Are you one of them?

2
Kentucky - Bourbon Chocolate Pecan pie

Image: nikohoshi

In Kentucky, bourbon flows as freely as hospitality, and it’s no surprise that the state’s beloved Bourbon Chocolate Pecan Pie is a crowd favorite—especially on Derby Day. This dessert combines crunchy pecans, smooth chocolate, and a splash of Kentucky bourbon for a sweet, boozy finish.

Now, here’s the thing with this one: You can’t call it a Derby Pie unless you are Kern’s Kitchen. Why not? Because they own the trademark. But that didn’t stop the locals—they came up with creative alternatives like "Not Derby Pie" or "Derby Dessert."

To make it yourself, try mixing a bit of melted butter with your chocolate for an extra velvety texture. Just don’t forget to sip a little bourbon on the side while you’re baking—it’s only fitting!

3
New Jersey - Green tomato pie

Image: Sophie Dale

New Jersey’s Green Tomato Pie might sound odd to some, but locals know it’s a delicious treat . Made from either ripe green tomatoes (which often have lovely stripes) or unripe red ones, this pie has a flavor that is surprisingly similar to apples. The tomatoes soften as they cook, and they blend beautifully with the cinnamon and the sugar. The result? A refreshing, unique filling.

If you’re giving it a go at home, make sure to use the ripest green tomatoes you can find—they add a more vibrant flavor to each bite.

4
Pennsylvania - Shoofly pie

Image: Kenneth Schipper

Pennsylvania’s Shoofly Pie is one of those old-time desserts that never goes out of style. Based on molasses, the pie comes in two styles: a dry-bottom version that’s more like a cake, or a wet-bottom version with a gooey custard layer.

But what about the name? Traditionally, it’s believed that the name came from the flies that bakers had to "shoo" away while the pie cooled. However, some say it's named after Shoofly the Boxing Mule, a celebrity from the 19th century.

Either way, this pie is a taste of Pennsylvania's Dutch heritage. If you’re up for a baking challenge, aim for the wet-bottom style—its sticky, rich filling is worth the extra effort. Just be ready to shoo some flies away!

5
Georgia - Peanut pie

Image: Isaac Quesada

Were you expecting to see a peach-based pie in this section? Not today, sir! Though Georgia is often called the Peach State, its real star crop is peanuts. Thousands of peanut farmers call Georgia home, including one very famous name. Do you know it? Jimmy Carter, the peanut-farming president!

Peanut Pie might not be as well-known as peanut butter, but it’s just as flavorful and rich. This Southern staple blends sweet, salty, and nutty goodness in every bite. Serve it with whipped cream, and you’ve got a crowd-pleaser that’s simple to make and even easier to enjoy.

Now, in case you were wondering, Carter wasn’t the only one: Thomas Jefferson was also a fan of peanuts! With a history like that, you know this pie is something worth trying.

6
Vermont - Maple pie

Image: Mary West

This one lives up to our expectations: Vermont’s connection with maple syrup is legendary, and Maple Pie is the sweet—and logical—result. As the nation’s leader in maple syrup production, Vermont has turned this delicious treat into a delicious pie.

In the 1860s, maple sugar was cheaper than cane sugar , making it the go-to sweetener, and today, it still holds that place of honor. Maple Pie is rich, buttery, and perfectly sweet… So, Vermont in a nutshell.

Are you giving this pie a go? Use a deep-flavored maple for an intense result!

7
Alaska - Blueberry Rhubarb pie

Image: Erol Ahmed

We may all know Alaska for its rugged wilderness, but it’s also home to some fantastic pie ingredients, like blueberries and rhubarb. These two grow in abundance, especially thanks to Alaska’s long summer days. And did you know? Back in the early 1900s, Henry Clark, who was nicknamed "The Rhubarb King," helped feed Gold Rush workers with fresh rhubarb.

You can use any kind of berry in this pie, but wild Alaskan blueberries are especially tasty! Add a dollop of vanilla ice cream on top, and you’ve got a true Alaskan treat. It’s tart, sweet, and perfect for any adventure. Just be sure to gather your berries before the bears do!

8
Colorado - Rocky road pie

Image: Dagmara Dombrovska

When you think of Colorado, the mighty Rocky Mountains are the first thing to come to mind, right? What better way to honor them than with a Rocky Road Pie? Done and done, thanks to the locals.

This pie brings together chocolate, marshmallows, and nuts, just like the famous ice cream flavor. Now, here is a fun fact: legend says the original Rocky Road ice cream was made by cutting marshmallows with sewing scissors!

We can’t really confirm whether that’s true or not, but you can’t deny the charm of the story. The pie version is just as rich and satisfying, with layers of melted chocolate and fluffy marshmallows. If you’re a fan of sweet and crunchy, this one’s for you.

9
Maryland - White potato pie

Image: Josephine Amalie Paysen

Most people think of sweet potatoes when they hear "potato pie," and that makes sense, but in Maryland, it’s all about the white potato .

This pie has been a local favorite for over 150 years, and early recipes date back to nothing less than the 1850s! Baked in a buttery crust, this pie is sweet and custard-like, with just a hint of cinnamon. It’s a bit like pumpkin pie’s lighter cousin.

Don’t be surprised if it becomes your new holiday go-to! Marylanders have been enjoying it for generations, and it’s easy to see why. Serve warm or cold—it’s the perfect ending to any meal.

10
Ohio - Buckeye pie

Image: Tanya Semenchuk

And we come to the end with Ohio’s signature pie: Buckeye pie take center stage , please! This delicious pie, along with its name, is inspired by the famous buckeye candy that mimics the state tree’s nut.

Though the real buckeye nut is toxic, you can eat this version without any worries. The pie is pure indulgence, layered with chocolate and peanut butter. The combination of creamy peanut butter filling and rich chocolate is hard to resist, and it looks just as good as it tastes. Simply mouthwatering!

Geography Geography 4 min read

A cross-country road trip

From Chicken Dinner to Psycho Path: The funniest street names in America!

Image: Joel Colvin

Many streets are named after significant figures or events, like Independence Avenue, Washington Street, or JFK Boulevard. But sometimes, a street's name isn't tied to a serious theme or story. Across all 50 states, you'll find streets and roads with names so strange they'll make you wonder if they're real or just a joke. If you want to have fun, join us on a tour of 10 US streets with the craziest names!

1
Psycho Path - Traverse City, Michigan

Image: Grigorii Shcheglov

If you like puns, you'll love the people from Traverse City, Michigan. But why? Because they decided to turn one of their streets into a clever joke.

Here is the name they chose for a street in their city: "Psycho Path"! We have to admit it's a good one! This, in fact, earned them the first place for having the wackiest street name!

2
No Name Lane - Glenwood Springs, Colorado

Image: Justin Lawrence

It seems that Coloradans had some creative challenges when naming some places. A perfect example is "No Name Lane," a street just east of Glenwood Springs. But the street is actually located within an area named "No Name," confusing, isn't it? And that's not all! In this region, you can also find landmarks such as No Name Canyon, No Name Creek, and, of course, the main road: No Name Lane.

3
Chicken Dinner Road - Caldwell, Idaho

Image: Cisco Lin

Can a street make you hungry? Well, a street name might! That's exactly what happened to us when we discovered a road in Caldwell, Idaho, with a rather appetizing name. We're talking about "Chicken Dinner Road," which, a few years ago, raised controversy among animal advocates who proposed shortening the name to simply Chicken Road. What do you think?

4
Boring Road - Decatur, Georgia

Image: Simon L

Well, we get it, the name of this street might not sound the most exciting, but don't let it fool you! Boring Road in Decatur, Georgia, is actually home to some pretty nice houses.

Though the name might not sound inviting, it probably comes from someone with the last name "Boring" rather than a reflection of the area's lack of excitement.

5
Robbers Road - Lincoln, Nebraska

Image: Bruno van der Kraan

This street doesn't exactly invite us to take a leisurely walk, especially not at night! But we have to defend the honor of Robber's Road in Lincoln, Nebraska, as its name actually comes from the famous Robber's Cave located in the area.

Robber's Cave is a historic sandstone cave that, according to legend, once served as a hideout for criminals, and that's why it has such a peculiar name! Today, the cave is a tourist spot in Lincoln, attracting many curious people to the area.

6
Memory Lane - Mt. Prospect, Illinois

Image: Benjamin Elliott

There's a place where you can literally take a walk down memory lane, and it is here in the United States! More precisely, it's in Mount Prospect, Illinois.

This town in the Prairie State is home to a street called "Memory Lane," though it wasn't always that way. Originally named "Hill Street" in the 1920s, the street was renamed by the late 1940s.

7
Captain Bacon Road - Yarmouth, Massachusetts

Image: Thought Catalog

Dear breakfast lovers, this could become your new favorite street! We're talking about Captain Bacon Road, located in Yarmouth, Massachusetts.

While there are several theories behind the name of this street, one thing is for sure: Captain Bacon Road has sparked a lot of curiosity (and hunger)!

8
Zzyzx - Mojave Desert in California

Image: frank mckenna

While it might look like a typo, "Zzyzx" is actually the name of a road in California's Mojave Desert. In fact, this unusual word not only designates a road but also refers to a small settlement in the state.

The name "Zzyzx" was invented in the 1940s by Curtis Howe Springer, a man who established a health resort and spring in the area. He wanted the name to be unforgettable, so he created "Zzyzx," intending it to be the last word in the dictionary.

9
Unexpected Road - Buena Vista, New Jersey

Image: Christian Lue

A phone call, a piece of news, even love; many things in life can be unexpected. But a street? Well, it seems so! If you don't believe us, you can ask the people of Buena Vista Township, New Jersey.

In this town, there's a street literally called "Unexpected Road," and in 2006, it earned a spot on a rather peculiar list: A survey by The Car Connection ranked it as the 7th wackiest street name!

10
English Muffin Way - Frederick, Maryland

Image: Rachel Park

Surprisingly, Captain Bacon is not the only breakfast-related street. You can also take a stroll down English Muffin Way in Frederick, Maryland.

What's interesting is that just off English Muffin Way sits a Bimbo Bakeries USA facility, famous for producing Thomas' English Muffins! Ok, now we're craving one.

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