Blog

Bruce Springsteen, Julia Louis-Dreyfus, Vera Wang and Mindy Kaling are among the famous faces to receive top federal honors for their contributions to the arts.

All four are recipients of the 2021 National Medals of Arts, which will be presented by US President Joe Biden in a ceremony on Tuesday.

The National Medal of Arts is the highest award given by the federal government to artists and patrons of art.

It is awarded to individuals or groups who deserve special recognition due to their outstanding contributions to the excellence, growth, support, and availability of the arts in the US.

Tuesday’s ceremony will be held in conjunction with the presentation of the 2021 National Humanities Medals.

Among the 12 humanities medal recipients is Sir Elton John, who was described by the White House as “an enduring icon and champion of absolute courage.”

“(Sir Elton) found purpose in challenging convention, breaking down stigma and promoting the simple truth that everyone deserves to be treated with dignity and respect,” an online profile read.

Sir Elton previously received his medal during a White House event in September 2022, in which he performed.

The ceremony, which Springsteen, Louis-Dreyfus, Kaling and Wang are expected to attend, will take place at 4:30 p.m. local time in the East Room of the presidential residence.

Springsteen was described by the White House as one of America’s “greatest performers and storytellers” whose music captures “the unwavering spirit of what it means to be an American.”

Julia Louis-Dreyfus was hailed as “one of the most decorated comedic actresses of our time” who “paved the way for women in comedy and in American life.”

Kaling was praised for her film and television work that “inspires and delights,” while Wang was noted for making “beauty and style accessible to all.”