Veteran actor Denzel Washington was among 19 recipients honored with the Presidential Medal of Freedom by President Joe Biden at the White House ceremony on January 4.
The Presidential Medal of Freedom is regarded as “the Nation’s highest civilian honor” and is awarded to individuals who have made exemplary contributions to the prosperity, values, or security of the United States, world peace, or other major endeavors in society.
“President Biden believes great leaders keep the faith, give everyone a fair shot, and put decency above all else,” the White House wrote in a statement.
“These 19 Americans are great leaders who have made America a better place. They are great leaders because they are good people who have made extraordinary contributions to their country and the world.”
????BREAKING: Denzel Washington is given the Presidential Medal of Freedom.
— Benny Johnson (@bennyjohnson) January 4, 2025
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Denzel Washington is widely recognized for his lasting impact on the film industry and was celebrated for his fine career as an actor, director and producer.
In the film industry, Washington is a truly remarkable figure. He has won two Academy Awards, three Golden Globe Awards, and a Tony Award. The Gladiator II star has also been nominated for two Emmy Awards and a Grammy Award.
In 2016, the American movie star was honored with the Cecil B. DeMille Award and the AFI Life Achievement Award in 2019.
Another major highlight came in 2020 when the New York Times named him the greatest actor of the 21st century. Some of Washington’s top films include Glory, Mo’ Better Blues, Malcolm X, The Hurricane, Training Day, Flight, Fences, and Roman J. Israel, Esq.”
The White House also touched on his leadership off-screen and noted his role as National Spokesman for the Boys & Girls Clubs of America for over 25 years and his ability to inspire future generations.
Other honorees included former Secretary of State Hillary Clinton, philanthropist George Soros, U2 frontman Bono, civil rights activist Fannie Lou Hamer, actor Michael J. Fox, fashion designer Ralph Lauren, soccer sensation Lionel Messi, Vogue editor-in-chief Anna Wintour, scientist Bill Nye, environmentalist Jane Goodall, and NBA legend Magic Johnson.
The likes of José Andrés, chef and founder of World Central Kitchen; historian David M. Rubenstein; former Defense Secretary Ashton Carter; philanthropist Tim Gill; former Michigan Governor George Romney; filmmaker George Stevens Jr.; and the late Robert F. Kennedy were also recipients of the award.
Many of Denzel Washington’s fans are delighted after he received the Presidential Medal of Freedom, believing him as a “worthy winner.”
Others have however frowned upon his acceptance of the medal and believe he should have declined the offer and not have hugged the “most pathetic president in U.S. history.”
