Biden honors Bono & Co.

Only “Magic” Johnson has to kneel before him

Basketball legend Earvin "Magic" Johnson had to take a knee.(Bild: AP/Manuel Balce Ceneta)

Hollywood stars, icons of the fashion world and a famous ape researcher: shortly before the end of his term of office, US President Joe Biden honored 19 celebrities with the highest civilian award in the USA. 

At a ceremony in the White House, Biden presented the medals to the honorees himself. In the case of basketball legend Earvin "Magic" Johnson, this caused a few laughs when he bent his knees with his back to Biden due to his height.

Rock musician Bono from the band U2, actors Denzel Washington and Michael J. Fox, who suffers from Parkinson's disease, and fashion designer Ralph Lauren also collected the medal from the President in person.

Basketball legend Earvin "Magic" Johnson had to take a knee.(Bild: AP/Manuel Balce Ceneta)

Soccer star Lionel Messi stayed away from the event. The elderly philanthropist George Soros, who has been stylized as an enemy by right-wing circles, was represented by his son.

Significant contribution made
The prestigious "Presidential Medal of Freedom" honors people who have made a significant contribution "to the security or national interest of the United States, world peace and cultural or other significant public issues". Biden awarded it for the last time before he leaves office on January 20.

Michael J. Fox(Bild: AP/Manuel Balce Ceneta)

Hillary Clinton(Bild: AP/Manuel Balce Ceneta)

Earvin "Magic" Johnson(Bild: APA/Getty Images via AFP/GETTY IMAGES/Tom)

Ralph Lauren(Bild: APA/Getty Images via AFP/GETTY IMAGES/Tom Brenner)

Anna Wintour(Bild: APA/Getty Images via AFP/GETTY IMAGES/Tom Brenner)

Primatologist Jane Goodall, fashion journalist Anna Wintour and former Democratic presidential candidate Hillary Clinton, a friend of Biden's, were also among the honorees.