Jackie “Mr.Excitement” Wilson got a well-deserved and long overdue star on the Hollywood Walk of Fame two days ago (9/4).
Sadly, Wilson’s widow, Harlean Harris Wilson, who had planned to attend the tribute, passed away less than two weeks ago. She had been looking forward to “accepting this tremendous tribute” on behalf of her late husband and was “… elated for him” and “ecstatic” that Jackie was getting a star.
Wilson died in 1984, at age 49.
His breakout hit was “Reet Petite” (1957); the clip below, “Baby Workout,” from his 1965 appearance on “Shindig,” displays the full range of his showmanship (he danced almost as well as he sang–Michael Jackson credited Wilson as a major inspiration). His energy and moves are thrilling!