President Joe Biden Surprises Elton John with Medal During White House Concert: ‘I’m Flabbergasted’

Sir Elton John has another honor to add to his storied career.

The “Rocket Man” singer, 75, was surprised when President Joe Biden presented him with the National Humanities Medal at his Friday performance on the South Lawn of the White House.

“Tonight is my great honor, and I mean this sincerely, to present the National Humanities Medal to Sir Elton John,” Biden announced. The music icon looked completely shocked at the announcement, and immediately teared up.

A White House official presented the medal by saying the honor was “for moving our souls with his powerful voice and one of the defining song books of all time. An enduring icon and advocate with absolute courage, who found purpose to challenge convention, shatter stigma and advance the simple truth — that everyone deserves to be treated with dignity and respect.”

Said John in the moment, “I’m never flabbergasted, but I’m flabbergasted.” He added that he would “treasure” the medal for what it represented. The two shared a hug after Biden placed the medal around John’s neck, and some private words.

Article URL: https://news.yahoo.com/president-joe-biden-surprises-elton-164120964.html