
‘Does Not Deserve It’: Trisha Yearwood Receives a Star on Hollywood Walk of Fame, Sparking Debates
The multi-faceted entertainer received the accolade in recognition of her numerous career milestones spanning over three decades.
Trisha Yearwood was honored with the 2,805th star on the Hollywood Walk of Fame during a ceremony in Los Angeles on Monday, March 24. While the accolade celebrated her many achievements, some fans felt she wasn’t deserving of the recognition.

A fan reacts to the news that Trisha Yearwood was awarded a star on the Hollywood Walk of Fame, from a post dated March 24, 2025 | Source: Facebook/countryrebelclothing
Hollywood Chamber of Commerce president and CEO Steve Nissen introduced Yearwood to the audience at the prestigious ceremony. He welcomed her to accept her star on the Hollywood Walk of Fame amidst applause from those in attendance.

Steven Nissen, President & CEO, Hollywood Chamber of Commerce and Trisha Yearwood pose onstage during the ceremony honoring Trisha Yearwood with a Star on the Hollywood Walk of Fame in Hollywood, California, on March 24, 2025 | Source: Getty Images
The ceremony, held near the iconic Capitol Records building, saw Yearwood’s husband and fellow country artist Garth Brooks, a Hollywood Walk of Famer himself, excited and happy for his wife.

Trisha Yearwood and Garth Brooks pose onstage during the ceremony honoring Trisha Yearwood with a Star on the Hollywood Walk of Fame in Hollywood, California, on March 24, 2025 | Source: Getty Images
As much as the mood was celebratory, with friends and industry peers believing Yearwood deserved the honor, fans had plenty to say about her receiving a star on the Hollywood Walk of Fame. Opinions ranged from skepticism to outright criticism.

View of Trisha Yearwood’s star during the ceremony honoring Trisha Yearwood with a Star on the Hollywood Walk of Fame on March 24, 2025 | Source: Getty Images
“For what?” one person who was confused over the honor questioned. Another admitted their feelings bluntly,“I’d like to say I’m happy for her, but I’m not.” The disbelief continued with someone simply asking, “Why??”

Trisha Yearwood poses onstage during the ceremony honoring her with a Star on the Hollywood Walk of Fame in Hollywood, California, on March 24, 2025 | Source: Getty Images
“Does not deserve it,” another fan declared, making their stance crystal clear. Some people questioned the qualifications behind the recognition, “I thought the Hollywood Walk of Fame was for people who actually did something in Hollywood.”

Trisha Yearwood poses onstage during the ceremony honoring her with a Star on the Hollywood Walk of Fame in Hollywood, California | Source: Getty Images
One commenter sarcastically suggested, “The title should be ‘Trisha Yearwood buys star on Hollywood Walk of Fame.'” Others were quick to speculate about her career focus, “Is that for her show on Food Network? 🤔.”

Trisha Yearwood speaks onstage during the ceremony honoring her with a Star on the Hollywood Walk of Fame on March 24, 2025 | Source: Getty Images
While many questioned Yearwood’s honor, not all reactions were critical. Some fans shared their excitement, with one commending her, “A huge congratulations to you Trisha Yearwood on your star on the Hollywood Walk of Fame 🎈.”

Trisha Yearwood in Hollywood, California, on March 24, 2025 | Source: Getty Images
Two of Trisha Yearwood’s friends and fellow country artists, Reba McEntire and Carly Pearce, attended the event, offering heartfelt tributes that highlighted her journey and achievements.

Sarah Zurell, Chair of the Board, Hollywood Chamber of Commerce, Reba McEntire, Trisha Yearwood, Carly Pearce, Cody Alan, and Steven Nissen pose onstage during the ceremony honoring Trisha Yearwood with a Star on the Hollywood Walk of Fame | Source: Getty Images
Yearwood’s friendship with McEntire goes beyond red-carpet events and award ceremonies, it sometimes extends to the stage.
Just before McEntire’s heartfelt tribute to Yearwood at her Hollywood Walk of Fame ceremony, the duo performed a powerful duet at “Opry 100: A Live Celebration.”

Reba McEntire and Trisha Yearwood pose onstage during the ceremony honoring Trisha Yearwood with a Star on the Hollywood Walk of Fame | Source: Getty Images
Their performance of McEntire’s 1991 hit, “The Night the Lights Went Out in Georgia,” highlighted not only their musical talent but also the genuine bond they share. Furthermore, their performance captivated the audience, blending their signature vocals in a way that left fans in awe.

A fan comment dated March 20, 2025 | Source: Instagram/nbc
McEntire embraced the celebratory spirit with an elegant look. She styled her red hair in a high ponytail with soft bangs and accessorized it with sparkling earrings. Her bejeweled jacket and matching boots added a touch of glamour.

Reba McEntire performs onstage during “Opry 100: A Live Celebration” at Grand Ole Opry in Nashville, Tennessee, on March 19, 2025 | Source: Getty Images
Yearwood opted for a more understated yet classic style, wearing a flowing maxi dress with her blonde locks in loose waves. As they sang together, the energy in the venue was electric. The performance showcased their vocal chemistry and stage presence, reinforcing their status as two of country music’s most celebrated artists.

Trisha Yearwood and Reba McEntire perform onstage during”Opry 100: A Live Celebration” at Grand Ole Opry in Nashville, Tennessee, on March 19, 2025 | Source: Getty Images
Fans took to social media to express their admiration. One fan wrote, “You floored me! Absolutely beautiful and great tributes to two wonderful and the duet of Georgia with Trisha. ❤️❤️❤️absolutely perfection [sic]!” Another commented, “Great seeing the superstar duet! I love it.”

Trisha Yearwood and Reba McEntire perform onstage during “Opry 100: A Live Celebration” at Grand Ole Opry in Nashville, Tennessee, on March 19, 2025 | Source: Getty Images
Others praised their performance, with comments like, “Loved their part of the show” and “2 of the most glamorous country music stars ever.” Some even suggested the two collaborate again, saying, “They totally need to sing a duet together.” The event itself also received high praise, with one fan calling it “the greatest show in a very long time.”

Trisha Yearwood and Reba McEntire perform onstage during Opry 100: A Live Celebration at Grand Ole Opry posted on March 20, 2025 | Source: Instagram/nbc
McEntire and Yearwood’s duet wasn’t the only moment that had fans talking. Ahead of the event, McEnitre took to X to encourage fans to tune in and watch the celebration. While her duet with Yearwood was a highlight, her solo performance became one of the most poignant moments of the night.
The “Fancy” singer honored country greats Patsy Cline and Loretta Lynn with a moving tribute, performing an acapella rendition of “Sweet Dreams (Of You).” The stripped-down performance showcased her powerful vocals and deep connection to country music’s rich history.
As she sang, the venue fell silent, letting the emotion of the moment take center stage. McEntire’s tribute served as a reminder of Cline and Lynn’s lasting influence on the genre. “Opry 100: A Live Celebration” was a night of honoring country music’s greatest voices.

Reba McEntire performs onstage “Opry 100: A Live Celebration” at Grand Ole Opry in Nashville, Tennessee, on March 19, 2025 | Source: Getty Images
For a century, the Opry has been a defining platform for country music, and the night paid tribute to its rich heritage. McEntire and Yearwood’s duet was just one of many unforgettable moments that reinforced the genre’s enduring appeal.
The event brought together some of the biggest names in country music. Yearwood’s husband, Brooks, also took the stage, delivering a special performance. Carly Pearce paid tribute to Dolly Parton, while Brooks and Yearwood teamed up again for a recreation of a classic George & Tammy duet.

Trisha Yearwood and Garth Brooks perform onstage “Opry 100: A Live Celebration” at Grand Ole Opry in Nashville, Tennessee, on March 19, 2025 | Source: Getty Images
Lainey Wilson and Marty Stuart joined forces for a Hank Williams classic, adding to the night’s nostalgic feel. The lineup featured even more country stars, including Carrie Underwood, Ashley McBryde, Jelly Roll, Dierks Bentley, and more. Each artist contributed to the celebration, making it a true reflection of the Opry’s lasting impact on country music.

Carrie Underwood performs onstage during “Opry 100: A Live Celebration” at Grand Ole Opry in Nashville, Tennessee, on March 19, 2025 | Source: Getty Images
Off the stage, Yearwood stunned on the red carpet in a black dress with shimmering details on the upper part. She paired the elegant look with black open-toe heels, posing for photos with confidence.
Despite radiating positive energy at the event, Yearwood has faced scrutiny in recent months. Earlier this year, she and Brooks found themselves in the spotlight for their performance at former President Jimmy Carter’s funeral. Many criticized the choice of song, claiming they found it inappropriate for a church setting and a Christian funeral.

A fan comments on Garth Brooks and Trisha Yearwood’s song performance at Jimmy Carter’s funeral, from a post dated January 9, 2025 | Source: X/GrangiePatriot
Brooks and Yearwood, who were close friends of Carter, sang a rendition of John Lennon’s 1971 track “Imagine,” at the Democrat’s funeral. Their performance caused quite a stir online, with many fans voicing their opinions on the choice of song.
The firestorm on social media largely revolved around the song’s lyrical rejection of religion. One of the most dividing verses sings, “Imagine there’s no heaven, It’s easy if you try, No hell below us, Above us only sky.” Fans didn’t love the idea of having these words sung in a church setting as they challenged the very values of the Christian funeral.
One fan expressed their disbelief, “Garth Brooks and Trisha Yearwood sing Imagine at a highly Christian funeral?!! How awful. Imagine there’s no Heaven?? [sic].”
Another triggered fan criticized this decision, “Garth Brooks and Trisha Yearwood are performing ‘Imagine’ at Jimmy Carter’s funeral. ‘Imagine there’s no heaven…’ ‘And no religion too …’ I gotta wonder—who planned this? There’s no worse song to sing at a funeral, except maybe ‘Highway to Hell.’ Sad. Pitiful, really [sic].”

Garth Brooks and Trisha Yearwood perform “Imagine” at a tribute service for former US first lady Rosalynn Carter at Glenn Memorial Church at Emory University in Atlanta, on November 28, 2023 | Source: Getty Images
Others took a hit at the song directly, writing, “Garth Brooks and Trisha Yearwood Singing the worst song ever written. ‘Imagine’ there’s no heaven. It’s easy if you try. No thank you. What kind of funeral song is that?! [sic]” More users questioned the song’s appropriateness, “Why would you sing this song at a Christian funeral? Weird.”
One user pointed out Carter’s strong faith, “Carter was a devout Christian and that song was absolutely tone-deaf to sing at his funeral.” Another individual agreed, “Inappropriate song for a devout Christian funeral.”

Garth Brooks and Trisha Yearwood perform “Imagine” at a tribute service for former US first lady Rosalynn Carter at Glenn Memorial Church | Source: Getty images
The setting was targeted, with one fan noting, “Sung in a historic cathedral…🤔. Bet Jimmy was rolling over in that coffin. 🙃” while another simply expressed disgust, “Yikes 😳.” Some considered it shameful, penning, “disgraceful.”
Another fan concurred, “That is a truly inappropriate choice of material. If Brooks chose that he should be ashamed. If someone asked for it he should have politely declined.” Others felt the performance wasn’t great, with one saying, “He should have rehearsed.”

Garth Brooks performs “Imagine” at a tribute service for former US first lady Rosalynn Carter at Glenn Memorial Church | Source: Getty images
One user was conflicted, writing, “This is a beautiful performance. The choice of this song is disrespectful to Carter’s memory.”
On the other hand, a few fans were more forgiving of the performance, with one stating, “It was absolutely amazing and beautiful hearing those 2 sing.” A fan, who also didn’t agree with the backlash, swooned, “Garth Brooks & Trisha Yearwood singing John Lennon’s ‘Imagine’ at the Jimmy Carter funeral was one of most beautiful pieces of music I’ve ever heard [sic].”

Garth Brooks and Trisha Yearwood at Glenn Memorial Church | Source: Getty images
Brooks and Yearwood performed the song because it was one of Jimmy Carter’s all-time favorites. In a past interview, Carter had been asked what his favorite Beatles song was and he answered, “My favorite is ‘Imagine.’ When I go to a strange country, Cuba and other places, in some of those nations, ‘Imagine’ has become a national anthem.”

Garth Brooks, Rosalynn Carter, Trisha Yearwood, and Jimmy Carter attend the 53rd annual ASCAP Country Music Awards at the Omni Hotel in Nashville, Tennessee, on November 2, 2015 | Source: Getty Images
Carter gushed about his appreciation for “Imagine,” noting its significance and widespread appeal. He shared that on a trip to Havana, one will see Lennon’s statue. He remarked that such places “always play ‘Imagine,’ and it’s one of my favorites just personally.”
Carter also reflected on how the song critiques aspects such as religion, national boundaries, nationalism, and jingoism. Yet, he acknowledged its profound impact, emphasizing its ability to resonate deeply with audiences worldwide.
Hence, “Imagine” by Lennon became a meaningful way for Brooks and Yearwood to honor their friend. Following his passing, Brooks shared a tribute on Instagram, “President Carter, the legacy you and Rosalynn have left us is as beautiful as the life you lived.”
Brooks expressed his gratitude to Carter and his late wife, Rosalynn Carter, for their lifetime of service to both the country and the world. He acknowledged how they inspired everyone not only through their words but also through their actions.
Yearwood also wrote a touching message on her Instagram account, “Rest easy, Mr. President. I’m sad for us, and happy for you. Your and Mrs. Rosalynn’s legacy of love will live forever. ♥️”
Brooks and Yearwood actively participated in Carter’s projects, particularly with Habitat for Humanity. They shared their experience of working on the Carter Work Project for 2024 on Instagram. The 2024 Carter Work Project united a diverse group of volunteers, homeowners, and supporters to repair and renovate more than 4,447 homes in 14 countries.