Bono, Denzel Washington, and Michael J Fox among recipients of Presidential Medal of Freedom

Among the recipients of the award were Bono, Denzel Washington, former Secretary of State Hillary Clinton, actor and activist Michael J. Fox, World Central Kitchen founder Jose Andres, Obama administration defence secretary Ashton Carter, Vogue editor Anna Wintour, fashion designer Ralph Lauren, footballer Lionel Messi, LGBTQ+ activist and entrepreneur Tim Gill, conservationist Jane Goodall and Lakers basketball player Earvin “Magic” Johnson.

In a statement posted via U2's Instagram, Bono wrote: “Frontmen don’t do humble, but today I was. Rock n roll gave me my freedom… and with it the privilege to work alongside those who’ve had to fight so much harder for theirs. And I want to give it up for my band mates – Edge, Adam, and Larry – without whom I would never have found my voice.”

Bono (@U2 @RED @ONECampaign) receives the Presidential Medal of Freedom. pic.twitter.com/5GsCiJr65z

— CSPAN (@cspan) January 4, 2025

The award is one of the highest honours “presented to individuals who have made exemplary contributions to the prosperity, values, or security of the United States, world peace, or other significant societal, public or private endeavours.”

In a statement announcing the awards, the White House said: "President Biden believes great leaders keep the faith, give everyone a fair shot, and put decency above all else. These 19 Americans are great leaders who have made America a better place. They are great leaders because they are good people who have made extraordinary contributions to their country and the world".