Milt and Bill Larsen Honored with Hollywood Star

The latest star to appear on Hollywood's Walk of Fame was unveiled this morning. The star honored Milt and Bill Larsen, founders of the Magic Castle. The Walk of Fame honors those who have made significant contributions in the categories of radio, television, motion pictures, recording and live performance. Entertainers are honored with a star that's embedded in the sidewalk on Hollywood Boulevard.

The Larsen brothers were given a star that is near the Magic Castle and across the street from the star of Harry Houdini. The star was the 2,317th and is located on the north side of Hollywood Boulevard, just west of Mann's Chinese Theater. Johnny Grant, Hollywood's Honorary Mayor, who has long presided at star unveilings, hosted the event. Irene Larsen, on behalf of her husband Bill Larsen, and Milt Larsen accepted the honor.

Bob Barker, television star and host of "The Price is Right," talked about Milt Larsen starting the Castle and how everyone questioned his judgment. "He's the perfect host for the Magic Castle," said Barker, "He's always gracious, always smiling and always drunk." "Thank you Regis," replied Milt Larsen. "I love Milt," replied Barker. "And I don't know why."

During his speech, Milt Larsen noted that the Larsen Brothers' star is only one of about 20 awarded for live performance. He joked that he had been envious for years that the Sherman Brothers had stars of their own. Larsen gleefully pointed out that Richard Sherman's star is "over there, in front of a Hooters." To the crowd, Larsen quipped, "Come stand on my star, anytime."

"The Larsen Brothers are such a foundation in Hollywood," said Gay Blackstone, President of the Academy of Magical Arts. "They transcend from the old days to the current. It is such an honor, thrill and privilege to be here." Blackstone also mentioned that she has a special place in her heart for Milt and Bill Larsen because it was through them that she met her late husband, Harry Blackstone Jr.

This star is long overdue," said Dale Hindman, Milt Larsen's Executive Assistant and former President of the Academy of Magic Arts. "Bill and Milt transformed a part of Hollywood with the Magic Castle and I think it's well deserved."

Attending the event were songwriter Richard Sherman, and astronaut Buzz Aldrin. No surprise, the crowd was filled with magicians including: Glenn Falkenstein, Francis Willard, Doc Eason, Brian Ochab, Len Reid, Allan Hayden, Jason Tong and Monty Smith.

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Review: The Magic Castle