'This Feels Like Forever': Jimmy Smits Receives Walk Of Fame Star

HOLLYWOOD, CA — Actor Jimmy Smits received his star on the Hollywood Walk of Fame in a virtual ceremony Wednesday. Smits was honored with the 2,696th star on the illustrious pathway.

"This is pretty mind-blowing stuff because it carries a permanence that is humbling," Smits said during the virtual ceremony. "In an industry where even mere employment can be so fleeting this kind of feels like forever."

Smits star will reside at 6100 Hollywood Blvd, near Gower Street. It's also in the area of Gregory Peck's star, whom Smits co-starred with in the 1989 film "The Old Gringo."

"Besides being in awe of him on so many levels Gregory imparted wisdom about life as an artist and the responsibility that comes with that," Smits said. "He validated for me what I had been feeling and what it meant to be an artist and how to use the platform to set me on the right path.
He treated me as an equal and that is why today's tribute is more significant because I have been granted a spot in close proximity to Gregory Peck's star. I honestly cannot imagine a bigger honor."

The actor received his star just before the premiere of his newest film "In the Heights," where he plays Kevin Rosario in the big-screen adaptation of the Broadway musical. The movie premieres Friday and will begin streaming on HBO Max June 11.

Smits' career has lasted over 30 years, and includes critically-acclaimed performances in "L.A. Law," "NYPD Blue" and "The West Wing." He also starred in the Broadway production of the award-winning "Anna in the Tropics," and later appeared in the Broadway play "God of Carnage."

Over the course of his career, the actor has raked in over 40 awards nominations. His work on "L.A. Law" won him a Primetime Emmy for Outstanding Supporting Actor in a Drama Series, while he later won a Golden Globe for Best Actor in a TV Series Drama in "NYPD Blue."

City News Service contributed to this report.