Ellen Degeneres journeyed to Washington DC this week to pick up her very well deserved Presidential Medal of Freedom from President Barack Obama, who honoured her for her achievements in comedy and humility. Nothing could ruin this star's day - not even being temporarily barred from the White House.

Ellen DeGeneresEllen DeGeneres is awarded the Presidential Medal of Freedom

The 'Finding Dory' star received the highest honour the United States has to offer for a civilian on Tuesday (November 22nd 2016) at the White House for her career as a comedian, talk-show host and actor, as well as the impact she has had on equality and the LGBTQ+ community.

Unfortunately, it wasn't all plain-sailing for Ellen. She couldn't even get into the White House at first because she'd forgotten her ID. We're not sure how she managed in the end but somebody probably recognised her. 'They haven't let me in to the White House yet because I forgot my ID. #NotJoking #PresidentialMedalOfFreedom', she Tweeted alongside a picture of herself looking sheepish but not altogether too troubled. 

When she was eventually allowed into the building, she honoured the special occasion with a Mannequin Challenge, featuring the likes of fellow honourees Robert De Niro, Tom Hanks and Michael Jordan all standing stock still for her interpretation of the new viral video craze.

When it came to accepting her prize, Ellen beamed with that infectious smile of hers and teared up as her tribute was read to the room. '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 tribute read. '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 candor helped change the hearts and minds of millions of Americans accelerating our nation's constant drive toward 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.'

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Obama glowed with pride as he comforted the tearful talk-show host, before tying her medal around her neck and giving her the biggest Obama hug. Congratulations, Ellen!