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Al Pacino already has a host of awards, including the Oscar, the Emmy, the Tony, and now a prestigious medal from the President of the United States.
President Barack Obama presented Pacino with one of the 2011 National Medals of Arts at a ceremony held in the White House's East Room on Monday. The Godfather star, 71, was selected for his contributions to the stage and screen.
Among the many attributes that landed him the honor are his "signature intensity," Obama proclaimed as he saluted the acclaimed actor.
Before awarding the eight medals for the Arts and the Humanities, Obama said the arts have a transformative ability to bring all people together despite their different backgrounds or beliefs.
"The arts and humanities do not just reflect America, they shape America," Obama said. "As long as I'm president, I look forward to making sure they are a priority for this country."
In addition to Francis Ford Coppola's unforgettable Godfather films, Pacino's resume includes memorable performances in Dog Day Afternoon, Glengarry Glen Ross, Scarface, Serpico, and Scent of a Woman, which earned him an Academy Award in 1992.
Also on hand to celebrate Pacino and the other respected artists, organizations and academics was actors Sarah Jessica Parker, John Lithgow and Alfre Woodard.
