“He wants to be invited to the Met Gala so bad”- Internet reacts as Biden awards Anna Wintour with the Presidential Medal of Freedom

In a White House ceremony on January 4, outgoing U.S. President Joe Biden awarded the Presidential Medal of Freedom to 19 individuals, including Anna Wintour, U2 frontman Bono, and philanthropist George Soros.

Among the notable figures, Wintour, the influential editor-in-chief of Vogue, was praised for her significant contributions to the fashion world, charity work, and advocacy for social causes.

However, Wintour’s award quickly sparked a wave of reactions online, particularly from Twitter users, who humorously remarked on the relationship between Wintour’s fashion empire and the high-profile events she organizes, such as the exclusive Met Gala.

Social media posts shared a playful sentiment that Wintour’s recognition by Biden might be part of a strategic effort to secure an invitation to the Met Gala.

"He wants to be invited to the met gala so bad," one netizen commented.

"Maybe now she’ll pick a good met gala theme (horror)," another netizen commented.

"He's gonna be at the met gala this year CONFIRMED," another user stated.

Others pointed out how the honor was well-deserved due to Anna Wintour's advocacy work. Wintour has led fundraising efforts for causes like AIDS research, raising millions of dollars.

"Probably the only good pick out of the rest," one person tweeted.

"Interesting choice. Guess the fashion world has its perks," another person remarked.

"The way she looks 20 years younger than him," one person commented.

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Anna Wintour's recognition from the White House

While the internet’s reactions varied from playful jabs to admiration for Anna Wintour's professional work, as a leading figure in fashion, she has used her platform for advocacy.

As per BBC's report on January 5, she helped in raising more than $20 million for AIDS research and supports arts organizations in both the U.S. and abroad. After funding cuts in 2022, she raised money for UK arts organizations.

Anna Wintour joins an esteemed group of honorees, including Bono, who has long campaigned for social justice, and humanitarian figures like Jane Goodall. The 2025 Presidential Medal of Freedom honorees included a diverse range of individuals who have made significant contributions across various fields.

U2 frontman Bono, known for his advocacy on issues like poverty, human rights, and HIV/AIDS, was also recognized for his tireless work in using his platform to promote social causes, particularly in Africa. Bono has received numerous accolades for his humanitarian work, including honorary knighthoods and global recognition for his efforts in poverty alleviation.

Actors Denzel Washington and Michael J. Fox were also among the honorees. Fox, known for his roles in Back to the Future and Family Ties, received the award for his advocacy in Parkinson’s disease research, a cause that became personal after his own diagnosis.

Philanthropist George Soros, founder of the Open Society Foundations, was honored for his contributions to democracy, human rights, and social justice worldwide.

Soros has been a vocal advocate for policies that promote human rights and freedom, often backing initiatives aimed at creating more open societies. His work in supporting education, healthcare, and justice reform has earned him recognition not only in the U.S. but globally.