Alan Cumming roasts ex-teacher at Hollywood star ceremony: ‘Who is on top and who is on bottom now?’
Monica Lewinsky, Alan Cumming and Brian Cox at Cumming’s Hollywood Walk Of Fame ceremony. (Maya Dehlin Spach/Getty)
Monica Lewinsky, Alan Cumming and Brian Cox at Cumming's Hollywood Walk Of Fame ceremony. (Maya Dehlin Spach/Getty)
Alan Cumming’s Hollywood Walk of Fame ceremony featured unexpected stars, including activist Monica Lewinsky, trans trailblazer Dylan Mulvaney and Succession icon Brian Cox.
The 60-year-old bisexual Scottish actor was honoured on the legendary star-studded walk. Wearing a bright turquoise suit, Cumming was joined by his husband Grant Shaffer, as well as other friends and family.
However, some fans were surprised to see Cumming is close with activist Lewinsky, who was a key figure in the infamous Bill Clinton-Lewinsky scandal that led to Clinton’s impeachment.
The US Traitors host was awarded the 2,832th star, located at 6320 Hollywood Boulevard. Cumming is renowned for his performances on the stage and screen. He’s the owner of a BAFTA Award, five Emmy Awards, and two Tony Awards.
During the ceremony, Cumming gave an extensive thank-you speech to those who have supported him throughout his impressive career. However, he also had some shade to throw.
“I’d like to thank my acting teacher at drama school who told me, when I was 19, that I’d never make it as a professional actor,” Cumming said. “And I’d like to say: ‘Who is on top and who is on bottom now?’”
His longtime friend Monica Lewinsky also took to the stage to say a few words.
Lewinsky shared: “This star on the Hollywood Walk of Fame is not just about a dazzling résumé, it’s a celebration of Alan Cumming, whose talent, bravery, and irreverent charm have made this world a little kinder, a little queerer, and a lot more fun.
‘Dignity is something he wants for everyone’
“He gives his time and voice to mental health, social justice and the LGBTQ+ community. Dignity is something he wants for everyone. This star is the symbol of how brightly Alan Cumming shines in the lives of millions and millions of people.
“Your love, support, and ability to tell a story that always makes me belly laugh every time, no matter what’s happening in my world, has helped me become the woman I am today.”
After stepping off the stage, the pair embraced and shared a quick kiss.
In the crowd, Dylan Mulvaney was also present. Posting online after the event, she wrote: “To know him is to love him and loving him has been one of my greatest gifts of the last couple years.”
“Alan has shown me that it is possible to work hard and play harder and that I can be more than one thing and that honesty is the best policy. He makes me believe in a better tomorrow.
“Thank you so much for including me in your very special day and I hope everyone goes to visit this very special star for a very special man.”
Succession actor and fellow Scot Brian Cox also honoured Cumming at the event.
“In [Scotland], he is a very important ambassador,” Cox explained. “In fact, he’s the main artistic ambassador.”
“He’s a truly astounding person, but above all, he’s extraordinarily kind and committed to other people; it’s not just about him.
Cox concluded: “It’s about how the work affects other people. I’m very, very proud to call Alan our friend.”
