Pittsburgh Walk Of Fame Announces 2026 Inductees

PITTSBURGH, PA — The Pittsburgh Walk of Fame, a Hollywood-style honor that debuted last fall at The Terminal in the Strip District, has announced its second set of 10 inductees.

The Walk of Fame group is driven by a group of civic, corporate and community leaders who want to celebrate the people of Pittsburgh who have left their mark on America.

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"Everyone involved in creating this visitor attraction is delighted with the choice of these ten honorees," Nancy Polinsky Johnson, founder and executive director of the Pittsburgh Walk of Fame in a news release.

"This dynamic group really represents the diversity of the talented people who have come out of southwestern Pennsylvania and made a noteworthy mark on American culture. And that's what this Walk is designed to celebrate."

Last year's initial group of inductees were George Benson, Nellie Bly, Andrew Carnegie, Rachel Carson, Fred Rogers, Dr. Jonas Salk, Andy Warhol, Roberto Clemente, August Wilson and Michael Keaton

This year they will be joined by:

Myron Cope, sports broadcaster

Legendary Pittsburgh sportswriter and broadcaster Myron Cope (1929–2008) became one of the most recognizable voices in football as the Steelers as color commentator on the team's radio broadcasts for 35 years.

But Cope's biggest national impact was as creator of the Terrible Towel, which Cope introduced to rally fans for a 1975 playoff game.

Franco Harris, football player

Considered one of the greatest running backs in professional football history, Franco Harris (1950–2022) played 13 seasons in the National Football League, winning four Super Bowl championships with the Pittsburgh Steelers during the 1970s. He also picked up a deflected pass and ran for a touchdown in a 1972 playoff game in what is widely regarded as the greatest play in NFL history - The Immaculate Reception.

Mario Lemieux, hockey star/Penguins owner

Regarded as one of the greatest players in NHL history, Mario Lemieux (1965– ) spent his entire National Hockey League career with the Penguins, leading the team to two Stanley Cup championships in 1991 and 1992.

Jimmy Stewart, actor

One of the most beloved actors in American film history, James Maitland Stewart (1908–1997) —known to all as Jimmy—was celebrated for his warm screen presence, distinctive voice, and enduring performances in classic Hollywood movies, including "It's a Wonderful Life."

.Henry Mancini, composer

One of the most prolific composers in film and television history, Henry Mancini (1924–1994) became famous for creating memorable soundtracks and theme songs that blended jazz, pop, and orchestral styles. Among his most well-known works are “Moon River” and “The Pink Panther theme.”

Charles "Teenie" Harris, photographer

A photographer best known for documenting Black life in Pittsburgh during the mid-20th century, Charles “Teenie” Harris (1908–1998) was a lifelong resident of the community he chronicled. Born and raised in the city’s Hill District, he got his first camera at age 3 and later spent 35 years at The Pittsburgh Courier, the country's preeminent Black newspaper.

H.J. Heinz, entrepreneur

An entrepreneur whose name is associated with a wide range of food products around the world, Henry John Heinz (1844–1919) spent his life and built his legendary namesake business in the Pittsburgh area. He founded the H.J. Heinz Company, and the Heinz brand of various products remains popular today.

George Westinghouse, inventor and industrialist

An engineer, inventor, and industrialist, George Westinghouse Jr. (1846–1914) played a major role in the development of electrical power systems, and he revolutionized railroad safety through the invention of an air brake system used worldwide.

Shirley Jones, actress and singer

Known for her work in film, television, and on stage, Shirley Mae Jones (1934– ) captivated generations with her sparkling soprano voice and timeless beauty. During a career that spanned more than six decades, she starred in over 30 movies, including three legendary musicals, and she gained pop culture success in the 1970s on the hit TV show "The Partridge Family."

Martha Graham, dancer and choreographer

One of the most influential figures in modern dance, Martha Graham (1894–1991) is recognized as a primal artistic force of the 20th century. Born in Pittsburgh, what is now Pittsburgh’s North Side, she created 181 ballets and a dance technique that expressed emotion through sharp, angular movements based on contraction and release.

An official induction ceremony will take place on October 13. Lemieux is expected to attend the event.