Natalie Portman, Christine Lagarde Among Honorees of France's Legion of Honor on Bastille Day

Paris, France – On the occasion of France's National Day, July 14, President Emmanuel Macron has bestowed the prestigious Legion of Honor upon a distinguished group of individuals, including Hollywood actress Natalie Portman, European Central Bank President Christine Lagarde, and fashion icon Paloma Picasso.

The annual list of honorees, announced traditionally ahead of the Bastille Day celebrations, also features Moroccan Nobel laureate in Physics Serge Haroche, French filmmaker Rebecca Zlotowski, Mauritian writer Nathacha Appanah, French actor Pierre Arditi, and pioneering French historian Michelle Perrot, known for her work on women's history.

Natalie Portman, an Israeli-born actress who resides in France, received the initial rank of Dame of the Legion of Honor. Paloma Picasso, daughter of the renowned artist Pablo Picasso and holding dual Franco-Spanish nationality, was also honored with the same rank. Christine Lagarde, a French national and head of the ECB, was elevated to the rank of Grand Officer, one of the highest levels within the order.

This year, a total of 619 individuals were recognized across various fields. The decorations, signed by President Macron the day before the national holiday, acknowledge those who have served France with distinction. Macron is marking his final Bastille Day anniversary as president, as his second five-year term concludes in 2027.

Established in 1802 by Napoleon Bonaparte, the Legion of Honor is France's highest state distinction. It is awarded in five hierarchical ranks: Chevalier (Knight), Officier (Officer), Commandeur (Commander), Grand Officier (Grand Officer), and Grand-Croix (Grand Cross). While primarily granted to French citizens, exceptions are made for foreigners who have demonstrated significant contributions to France or have strong ties to the nation through science, culture, politics, or humanitarian aid.