Possibly one of the most famous TV hosts of all time, Ellen De Generes was given the medal of freedom by President Barack Obama. She received the highest civilian award for her undeniable contribution towards the gay rights movement. 

Obama almost choked up himself when he spoke about her. "It's easy to forget now, when we've come so far,  just how much courage was required for Ellen to come out on the most public of stages almost 20 years ago. What an incredible burden that was to bear - to risk your career like that - people don't do that very often. And then, to have the hopes of millions on your shoulders”, he said.

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Ellen is a major figure in the LGBT community and while many countries like ours still struggle with accepting this section of the society and give them the respect that they deserve, the US looks up to her as a major source of inspiration and courage. Other people who were honoured along with her included Tom Hanks, Robert De Niro and Diana Ross.