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Ellen began crying before Obama had even presented her with the medal.
Ellen DeGeneres shed more than a few tears when she was bestowed with America's highest civilian award by President Barack Obama.
Among a group of 21 iconic individuals, the comedian and television host was honoured with the Presidential Medal of Freedom at the White House on Monday afternoon local time.
The crowd started laughing when the waterworks began well before DeGeneres received her medal. She was reassured with a pat on the back from Obama.
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"In a career spanning three decades, Ellen DeGeneres has lifted our spirits and brought joy to our lives as a stand-up comic, actor and television star," the announcer said as Obama placed the medal around The Ellen Show star's neck.
"In every role, she reminds us to be kind to one another and to treat people as each of us wants to be treated. At a pivotal moment, her courage and candour helped change the hearts and minds of millions of Americans, accelerating our nation's constant drive towards equality and acceptance for all.
"Again and again, Ellen DeGeneres has shown us that a single individual can make the world a more fun, more open, more loving place so long as we just keep swimming."
Obama said in honouring her that she has a way of making people laugh at something rather than someone, "except when I danced on her show."
AdvertisementAdvertise with NZME.Obama also praised her courage in coming out as gay nearly two decades ago.
DeGeneres wiped tears from her eyes and embraced the President, who also appeared to be somewhat emotional.
Making it to the ceremony on time was a close call for DeGeneres, who experienced a delay in getting in because she forgot her ID.
.@POTUS Barack Obama just awarded me the #MedalofFreedom. I hope it serves as an ID. I have no idea how I'm getting home. pic.twitter.com/JSMf0sJqyF
— Ellen DeGeneres (@TheEllenShow) November 22, 2016Among those awarded the Presidential Medal of Freedom were actors Tom Hanks, Robert De Niro and Robert Redford.
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Michael Jordan and Kareem Abdul-Jabbar, both legendary basketball players, are also among the honourees.
Bruce Springsteen and Diana Ross will be recognised for their music. Other honourees include philanthropists Bill and Melinda Gates and broadcaster Vin Scully.
President Obama said the people receiving the medal had helped push America forward and inspired millions around the world.
The award recognises especially meritorious contributions to the national interests of the United States, to its culture, or to other significant endeavours.
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