American actor Denzel Washington has tested positive for coronavirus.
The New York native was set to receive the Presidential Medal of Freedom for his impressive list of accomplishments, but Washington was forced to miss the award ceremony after contracting the virus, according to a White House official and the actor’s publicist.
The Academy Award-winning actor was one of 17 recipients chosen by US President Joe Biden to be honored this year.
At the ceremony on Thursday, the president pointed out that Washington couldn't be here but wanted to be, noting that the actor will be honored at a later date.
In addition to his long career as an actor, Washington is also recognized for serving as the national spokesperson for Boys & Girls Clubs of America for more than 25 years.
The annual award, which is the highest civilian honor in the United States, is given to those who have made exemplary contributions to the prosperity, values, or security of the United States, world peace, or other significant societal, public, or private endeavors.
The nation’s highest civilian honors typically are given annually to a group that includes politicians, activists, artists, and scientists.
Other recipients included Olympic gymnast Simone Biles, civil rights activist Diane Nash, and critical care nurse Sandra Lindsay, who was the first to receive the coronavirus vaccine.
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