Morgan Freeman Receives Distinguished Citizen Award

Morgan Freeman took a break from Hollywood’s award season to receive a different kind of award – the Boy Scouts of America Distinguished Citizen Award.

The award recognizes noteworthy and extraordinary leadership of Mississippians and serves as a way to inspire Scouts to lead while delivering a message that character counts. Freeman celebrated the accolade at an awards ceremony in Mississippi with the Yocona Area Council on Feb. 12, 2016.

Famous for his deep, buttery voice and Oscar-winning acting chops, Morgan Freeman is one of the most well respected actors in modern cinematic history. Films like Driving Miss Daisy, Million Dollar Baby and family favorite, The Lego Movie are among Freeman’s long line of box office hits that have propelled him to stardom.

Although Freeman was born in Memphis, Tenn., he moved to Charleston, Miss., as an infant. The Academy Award winner still has deep roots in the state, and many of his ancestors are buried there. In fact, Freeman credited the start of his acting career to his time in Mississippi. The actor debuted at the age of eight playing the leading role in his school play.

The council also honored the late Jack Reed Sr. at the ceremony, who spent 60 years involved with Scouting in Northeast Mississippi.

Can you think of other pop culture icons who exemplify Scouting characteristics like leadership and outstanding citizenship? Share in the comments below!