Mark Burnett to Spotlight Hollywood Walk of Fame

HOLLYWOOD: Coinciding with the 50th anniversary of the Walk of Fame in 2010, Mark Burnett Productions has signed on to create and produce several shows centered on the iconic Hollywood Boulevard landmark.

More than 2,300 legends from the worlds of film, television, music, live theater and radio have been recognized with stars on Hollywood Boulevard. The first show to come from the deal will celebrate the Walk of Fame’s golden anniversary. Proceeds from the TV shows, web content, brand sponsors and ancillary rights will help the Hollywood Chamber of Commerce pay for refurbishment of the Walk of Fame and its ongoing programs supporting the community of Hollywood.

“The Hollywood Chamber of Commerce has grand plans for the 50th Anniversary of the Walk of Fame to celebrate the wonderful achievements of the creative community," commented Leron Gubler, the president and CEO of the Chamber. "We have long-pursued a television show about the Walk of Fame and we are delighted that dream is being realized as a 50th anniversary television show to mark the culmination of this celebration. It is a huge undertaking, and we are privileged to have Mark Burnett and his team bring their vision, creativity and energy to developing this show. Mark really understands the possibilities of leveraging the Walk of Fame within the TV and web worlds and will help propel our globally cherished property into the digital era."

Burnett, the president of Mark Burnett Productions, added: "The Walk of Fame and the Hollywood Chamber have a 50-year heritage of celebrating accomplishments of talented men and women in our industry. The stories of these stars makes this a unique asset to develop content from, and we are excited to partner with Leron and the Hollywood Chamber of Commerce Board of Directors to see the Walk of Fame come to life."

Vanguard Entertainment Media Group and Global Icons, the Chamber’s licensing agency, are spearheading the development of television and digital content surrounding the Walk of Fame. "The Walk of Fame is the only destination where all the disciplines of Hollywood come together and is a natural fit for creative development This show is part of an evolution to create compelling content to support the Hollywood Chamber’s initiatives and secure global brands to support the 50th anniversary," said Mark Owens, the president of Vanguard Entertainment Media Group. "Mark Burnett’s company understands the marketing community."

Added Jeff Lottman, the CEO of Global Icons: "The Walk of Fame brand has been licensed via various products over the years and it is great that several TV shows are the next wave of ideas."