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Denzel Washington missed out on receiving his Presidential Medal of Freedom in person because of COVID.
On Thursday, the White House held a ceremony to honor civilians who’ve made an impact in the country. The recipients of the night included Olympians Simone Biles, Megan Rapinoe, New York City nurse Sandra Lindsay, Denzel Washington, and 16 others.
Everyone was in attendance to receive their award besides Washington. A representative for the actor confirmed that his absence was due to his positive Covid results.
“Denzel tested positive for COVID, and so he was unfortunately unable to attend the Medal of Freedom award ceremony,” the rep said.
Even though he missed the memorable event, the rep added that Washington “feels fine.”
The “Training Day” actor was honored for his long-standing relationship with the Boys & Girls Club of America. Washington served as the national spokesperson for a quarter of a century.
President Biden also gave out a medal to Sandra Lindsey. Lindsey is a New York nurse who gained fame after being the first American to receive a Covid vaccination on live television.
Gymnast Simone Biles also received a medal for her outspoken advocacy for issues like athletes’ mental health, children in foster care, and sexual assault victims.
“The Fourth of July week reminds us what brought us together long ago. The cause of freedom shines like a sun to light up the world,” Biden said. “That’s what we see in the extraordinary group of Americans up here on this stage.”
