Actor and activist Michael J. Fox was honored with the Presidential Medal of Freedom, the nation's highest civilian award, during a ceremony at the White House on Saturday. Fox received a standing ovation as he made his way to the stage in the East Room to accept the prestigious medal from President Joe Biden.
Fox was among 19 distinguished recipients recognized for their exceptional contributions to American society. The beloved actor was specifically honored for his decades of advocacy work supporting those diagnosed with Parkinson's disease, a condition he has lived with since 1991.
"You defend the values of America, even when they're under attack," President Biden told the honorees during the ceremony. He praised their collective influence and impact both domestically and globally.
The impressive list of recipients included former Secretary of State Hillary Clinton, U2 frontman Bono, chef Jose Andres, and basketball legend Earvin "Magic" Johnson. Other notable honorees were actor Denzel Washington, Vogue editor Anna Wintour, and renowned conservationist Jane Goodall.
The Presidential Medal of Freedom, established by President John F. Kennedy, recognizes individuals who have made exemplary contributions to the United States' prosperity, values, security, world peace, or other significant societal endeavors.
This marked President Biden's final Medal of Freedom ceremony of his current term. In 2022 and 2023, he bestowed the honor on distinguished Americans including gymnast Simone Biles, former congresswoman Gabrielle Giffords, and actress Michelle Yeoh.
The White House highlighted that these 19 Americans exemplify great leadership through their dedication to decency and extraordinary contributions to their country and the world.