Bryan Adams gets Hollywood star

Grammy-winning Canadian singer Bryan Adams was honoured with a star on Hollywood’s storied Walk of Fame – with a little help from fellow countryman and hockey legend Wayne Gretzky.

The pair braved an unseasonal Los Angeles downpour to celebrate the 51-year-old being granted the 2,435th star on the walkway of stars along Hollywood Boulevard.

“I remember being in Hollywood at the age of 16 and marvelling at the stars,” Mr Adams, a diplomat’s son who has had number one hit records in more than 40 countries.

“The idea of being part of it never entered my mind. It was too far-fetched. Today, I’m humbled at the induction of my name. It’s fantastic,” he added, sheltering from the rain.

National Hockey League’s all-time scoring leader Mr Gretzky said the weather, rather than Los Angeles’ usual sunshine, was appropriate.

“This is typical. I’ve been to an outdoor concert of Bryan’s where it was pouring rain and watched him perform his magic,” he said, calling Mr Adams “a very humble Canadian and adding: “I’m very proud to say he’s Canadian.”

Mr Adams was born in Ontario, but spent much of his youth in England, Israel, Portugal and Austria, following his father’s postings.

He hit the big time in 1983 with his third album Cut Like a Knife, while his other hits have included Summer of ’69, Run to You, and Let’s Make It A Night To Remember. The singer – who is currently on tour, including a concert in Los Angeles on April 9 – won a Grammy Award for (Everything I Do) I Do It For You, from the 1991 film Robin Hood – Prince of Thieves.

Mr Adams sang Canada’s national anthem, O Canada, before Mr Gretzky’s final game in 1999, adding the line, “We’re gonna miss you Wayne Gretzky.”

Mr Gretzky, known as the “Great One” by his fans, retired holding 55 league records, including being the only player to record more than 200 points in one season which he achieved four times.