July 08, (THEWILL) – American actor, Denzel Washington was absent at the presidential medal of freedom ceremony, which took place on Thursday, after contracting COVID 19.
The event, which took place at the White House, had 16 other recipients decorated by President Joe Biden.
Washington was announced as a recipient of the award last week along with Simone Biles, Gabrielle Gifford and Megan Rapinoe and posthumous awards for Steve Jobs and John Mc Cain.
The annual event which is the highest honor in the United States, is given to those who have made exemplary contribution to the prosperity, values or security of the United States, world peace and other significant societal, public or private endeavors.
However, Washington tested positive for COVID-19 and couldn’t make it to the ceremony.
“Denzel tested positive for COVID-19 and so he was unfortunately unable to attend the Medal of Freedom award ceremony”, a representative of Washington said. The White House also confirm his absence due to a positive COVID test.
Washington’s representative also reveals he is getting better. “He feels fine”, he said.
While speaking at the award ceremony, Biden referred to Washington as “a man who couldn’t be here today, but wanted to be”. He noted that the actor will be honoured at a later date.
In addition to his long career as an actor, Washington is also being recognised for serving as the national spokesperson for Boys and Girls Clubs of America for more than 25 years.
