WILLIAM FREDERICK, the former chairman of the Hollywood Walk of Fame, has died. He was 84.

The theatre mogul, who is one of the few non-celebrities whose hand and footprints can be seen in the forecourt of Mann's Chinese Theater in Hollywood, died of complications from heart surgery on 19 August (08).

Frederick oversaw hand and footprint ceremonies at the Los Angeles landmark for more than 20 years. He also hosted Walk of Fame star unveiling ceremonies.

He became a part of Hollywood history himself in 1999 when his community work and dedication were honoured and his hand and footprints were added to the famous cement.