Pop legends New Kids on the Block (NKOTB) are officially set to receive one of the entertainment industry’s highest honors — a star on the Hollywood Walk of Fame, joining the Class of 2025 in a celebration that recognizes their groundbreaking contributions to music and pop culture.
The Walk of Fame ceremony is scheduled for December 5, 2025, with the star to be placed on Hollywood Boulevard near the historic El Capitan Theatre, alongside fellow pop icons and musical trailblazers.
A Long-Awaited Milestone
Formed in Boston in 1984, New Kids on the Block — Donnie Wahlberg, Joey McIntyre, Jordan Knight, Jonathan Knight, and Danny Wood — were among the first groups to ignite the modern boy band phenomenon. With chart-topping hits like “Step by Step,” “Hangin’ Tough,” and “Please Don’t Go Girl,” NKOTB sold more than 80 million albums worldwide, paving the way for future pop acts like NSYNC, Backstreet Boys, and One Direction.
“This recognition is for our fans as much as it is for us,” said Donnie Wahlberg in a press statement. “They’ve stood by us for four decades — through it all. To be honored in this way, with them there, is going to be unforgettable.”
Hollywood Ceremony and Special Guests
The induction ceremony is expected to draw a massive crowd of fans, as well as celebrity guest speakers from across entertainment. Early reports suggest appearances by Mark Wahlberg, Debbie Gibson, and Paula Abdul, all of whom share personal or professional ties with the band.
Ana Martinez, producer of the Hollywood Walk of Fame ceremonies, called NKOTB’s honor “a full-circle moment”:
“They inspired a generation, created an enduring fan movement, and brought joy to millions. Their influence still resonates today, and their star is well-earned.”
A Year of Celebration
The Walk of Fame honor comes during a year of renewed activity for the group. NKOTB is currently touring on their “Block Party 2025” arena tour and recently announced a deluxe anniversary edition of Hangin’ Tough — complete with unreleased tracks and new interviews.
Netflix is also reportedly in development on a docuseries chronicling the band’s rise, break-up, and triumphant reunion in the 2000s, with production insiders hinting at a 2026 release.
Fan Reactions Pour In
Within minutes of the announcement, “#NKOTBWalkOfFame” began trending across social media platforms, with longtime fans expressing emotional excitement.
One fan tweeted,
“We’ve been waitin’ for this since the 90s! Our boys finally getting the recognition they deserve. Proud Blockhead forever.”
NKOTB’s official fan club is organizing travel packages and fan meetups surrounding the event, with thousands expected to travel from around the world.
From teen heartthrobs to timeless pop icons, New Kids on the Block have earned their place in music history — and now, their name will forever shine on Hollywood Boulevard.
