Denzel Washington Receives Presidential Medal of Freedom
Denzel Washington at the L.A. premiere for Gladiator II at the TCL Chinese Theatre on November 18, 2024.
Credit: Featureflash Photo Agency
By: Joshua Martin
On Saturday (Jan. 4th), Denzel Washington received the Presidential Medal of Freedom for his contributions to American and global society. Washington was one of nineteen honorees who attended a special ceremony hosted by President Joe Biden at the White House. Biden personally presented the iconic actor with this prestigious award, which is the nation’s highest honor.
“Together, you leave an incredible mark – and I mean this sincerely, this group – you leave an incredible mark on our country.”
In addition to Washington, this year’s recipients of the Medal of Freedom included NBA legend “Magic” Johnson, former Senator and Presidential candidate Hillary Clinton, actor Michael J. Fox, fashion icon Anna Wintour, soccer star Lionel Messi, fashion designer Ralph Lauren, Bill Nye “The Science Guy,” and more.
Awarded to “good people who have made extraordinary contributions to their country and the world,” the Presidential Medal of Freedom was first awarded in 1963. Past recipients include former athletes Jackie Robinson, Hank Aaron and Muhammad Ali. Civil Rights activist Rosa Parks, former President Barack Obama and the legendary Blues musician B.B. King.
The legendary thespian and director recently celebrated a 70th birthday and continues to be an influential force in Hollywood and beyond. With no signs of slowing down, the recently released film “Gladiator 2” surpassed over $320 million dollars worldwide. Making it the highest-grossing film of his career.
Click the link below to watch Denzel receive the Presidential Medal of Freedom.
Biden honors 19 politicians, philanthropists, cultural icons with Presidential Medal of Freedom
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