A search is underway in Hollywood for a new honorary mayor, a person who could help choose people to honor on the famous Walk of Fame, and unveil their sidewalk stars in a way that makes them and everyone else feel special, a news report said yesterday.

Longtime Honorary Mayor and show business veteran Johnny Grant, who helped run the Walk of Fame and emceed its sidewalk ceremonies for the Hollywood Chamber of Commerce for 28 years, died January 9 at age 84.

Hollywood is actually not a city, but a portion of the city of Los Angeles, in the western US state of California. However, the post of honorary mayor was created for ceremonial purposes.

Although the selection for a new honorary mayor could be months away, three front-runners have emerged: billboard queen Angelyne, longtime Hollywood radio personality Gary Owens and "Let's Make a Deal" television show host Monty Hall, according to the Los Angeles Times.

Angelyne, whose billboards picture her pouting provocatively, began campaigning for the honorary mayor's job after Grant's death, describing herself as "ageless," although she is reportedly at least 46.

Hall, 86, received his star on the Walk of Fame in 1973 and Owens, 71, got his in 1980, while Angelyne does not have one.

No younger names have been mentioned so far -- even though Hollywood in the last decade has been transformed into a hip district of trendy nightspots and upscale restaurants favored by young stars, according to the report.

Hollywood Chamber of Commerce officials said they will take their time picking Grant's replacement -- even though they face a long list of scheduled Walk of Fame ceremonies.