Jo Koy makes history as first Filipino American honored at TCL Chinese Theatre

Filipino American stand-up comedian and actor Jo Koy was honored with a handprint and footprint ceremony at the iconic TCL Chinese Theatre in Hollywood, February 11.

The recognition marked a historic milestone, as Joseph Glenn Herbert, Jo Koy’s real name, became the first Filipino American to have his hands and feet immortalized in cement at the legendary Hollywood landmark.

Jo Koy, 54 joins a roster of entertainment legends whose imprints are permanently displayed in the famed landmark,  a tradition that dates back nearly a century and celebrates some of the biggest names in film and entertainment.

According to Yahoo Entertainment, the ceremony was hosted by his friend, actress and comedian Tiffany Haddish, who praised Jo Koy’s journey and impact on the entertainment industry, specifically in comedy.

Several prominent figures attended the event, including comedian actor Gabriel “Fluffy” Iglesias, music icon Kenneth “Babyface” Edmonds, Taboo of the Black Eyed Peas, actress Tisha Campbell, Backstreet Boys member A.J. McLean, Boyz II Men’s Shawn Stockman and Wanya Morris, and comedian-actor Martin Lawrence.

According to his biography on IMDB, Jo Koy started performing at a small Las Vegas coffeehouse and has since become a global stand-up sensation. He has sold out arenas and theaters around the world, breaking records at The Neal S. Blaisdell Concert Hall in Honolulu. His accolades include the “Stand-Up Comedian of the Year” award at the 2018 Just For Laughs Festival.

Jo Koy has four hit comedy specials on Comedy Central and Netflix, including Comin’ In Hot. His album Live From Seattle

reached number one on the Billboard charts. He also hosts the weekly podcast The Koy Pond, where he shares humor and insights with fellow comedians.

In his heartfelt speech, Jo Koy reflected on his years of hard work, the importance of representation, and his desire to inspire the next generation, particularly young people who dare to dream big.

“There’s kids out there like me that have a dream, and when they see people like you do it, then we know that the windows are open and the doors are open, and it can happen. I always wanted that to be, like what I did, to inspire. I always wanted my son to be able to go, ‘Oh, damn, my dad did it, so I can do it,” he said.

Jo Koy also spoke candidly about perseverance and  embracing failure as part of the journey to success.

“Keep pushing hard and just understand it’s okay to fail, because if you’re not failing, you’re not trying. Fail as hard as you can. And even when they look at you and they go, ‘Ah, look at you. You fail.’ You just look at them and go, ‘Well, what are you doing? Looks like you’re just standing there watching people."

He added, "I’m going to keep trying, because I’m not done. I like to say this life is too funny to take seriously, so just laugh.”