Idris Elba, Torvill and Dean, and other notable figures were recognized in Britain's 2026 New Year Honours for their contributions to society, with Elba receiving a knighthood for anti-knife crime campaigning and Torvill and Dean being honored for their Olympic achievements, among others in arts, sports, and community service.
David Beckham was knighted by King Charles and his Instagram post celebrating the event received over two million likes, surpassing the royal family's usual engagement levels, highlighting Beckham's global popularity and the significance of the occasion.
David Beckham received a knighthood from King Charles for his services to sport and charity, with his wife Victoria designing his suit as a symbolic gesture of unity. The event was family-oriented, with Beckham's children sharing heartfelt messages on social media, and the couple showcasing their elegant style at royal occasions.
David Beckham was knighted for his contributions to football and British society, highlighting his international football career, philanthropic work, and support for the monarchy, with the ceremony attended by his family at Windsor Castle.
Prince William and Kate Middleton are fans of Harry Potter, with William recently knighting actor Gary Oldman, who played Sirius Black, at Windsor Castle, highlighting their admiration for the films and Oldman's career.
Gary Oldman was knighted by King Charles III for his contributions to drama, joining other notable figures in the arts and entertainment industry who received various honors in the birthday honors list, including Samantha Morton, Adjoa Andoh, and Elaine Paige.
David Beckham is set to be knighted by King Charles III, recognizing his achievements in football and contributions to charity and the UK, with the ceremony expected to take place in the coming weeks.
David Beckham is becoming a prominent figure in royal circles, frequently attending royal events and engaging in environmental and charitable activities, with speculation that he may soon be awarded a knighthood, which would mark a significant recognition of his contributions beyond football.
ABBA reunited on May 31 for a knighthood ceremony in Sweden, where King Carl XVI Gustaf awarded them the Royal Order of Vasa, making them Commanders of the First Class. This marks their first public appearance together since recording their 2021 album "Voyage" and their first performance since 1982. Two Nobel Prize-winning physicists were also knighted at the event.
All four members of ABBA reunited in Sweden to be knighted with the Royal Order of Vasa for their outstanding contributions to music. This marks their first public appearance together since their 2021 comeback album. The knighthood ceremony, held at the royal palace in Stockholm, was part of a revived tradition of honoring Swedish citizens. Despite this reunion, there are no plans for future ABBA projects, although discussions about a third "Mamma Mia!" film continue.
Swedish supergroup ABBA has been honored with the prestigious Order of the Vasa for their significant contributions to Swedish and international music, marking the first time the award has been given in nearly 50 years.
Christopher Nolan and his wife Emma Thomas, the director and producer of "Oppenheimer," will receive knighthood and damehood for their contributions to film. The honors come after their biopic about J. Robert Oppenheimer won seven Oscars, including best film and best director. The couple, who run the production company Syncopy, have been recognized for their impact on the film industry.
King Charles III has officially knighted Queen guitarist Brian May in a ceremony at Buckingham Palace for his contribution and service to music and charity. May is the only member of the band with the honor. He hopes the title of "Sir" would give him "a little bit more clout."
Brian May, the lead guitarist of the rock band Queen, has been knighted by King Charles III for his services to music and charity. May, who is also an astrophysicist and animal rights activist, received the title of Knight Bachelor at Buckingham Palace. He is now known as Sir Brian. May's investiture ceremony was attended by his wife, Anita Dobson. May is a founding member of Queen and famously performed "God Save the Queen" from the roof of Buckingham Palace in 2002.