Bruno Mars Receives Key to Las Vegas

Bruno Mars accepted a key to Las Vegas from Clark County Commissioner Jim Gibson during a parade on April 10. The city also renamed a section of Park Avenue “Bruno Mars Drive” to honor the singer’s long-running residency at Dolby Live. Mars read a text message from his father, Peter Hernandez, aloud to the crowd gathered at Toshiba Plaza.

The text expressed pride but urged humility, reminding Mars the street belonged to his fans. His father also mentioned Mars’ late mother, evoking strong emotion. The message concluded with a playful request for money, prompting laughter from Mars and the audience.

Mars joins Elvis Presley, Frank Sinatra, and Penn & Teller as one of the few artists with a Las Vegas street named in their honor. He announced a $1 million donation to Las Vegas Children’s Hospital, matched by MGM Resorts. Researchers suggest parental awe—like that expressed by Hernandez—can deeply benefit a parent’s well-being.