LONDON – The iconic figures of the United Kingdom’s cultural and sporting landscape have been celebrated with the highest honors bestowed by King Charles III. In this illustrious list, David Beckham, Gary Oldman, and Roger Daltrey join the ranks of knights, while Elaine Paige, Pat Barker, and Penny Mordaunt are elevated to dames.
The royal honors, released to coincide with King Charles III’s birthday celebrations, recognize contributions to British society made by individuals both in the spotlight and everyday citizens. These distinctions are traditionally presented twice annually, during New Year’s and in June, with candidates selected by committees from civil service nominations, forwarding recommendations from both government and the public sector. The official ceremonies are held at Buckingham Palace, with awards typically given by the king or a senior royal in his stead.
**Newly Knighted Sirs**
David Beckham, aged 50, a former captain of the England national team, now holds the title of “Sir David” following a conversation with King Charles at the Chelsea Flower Show, which fueled speculation about his knighthood. Beckham’s extensive football career, including stints at Manchester United and Real Madrid, along with his notable charitable work, particularly through UNICEF, and his pivotal involvement in bringing the 2012 Olympic Games to London, have been highlighted as key reasons for this honor. Reflecting on his upbringing in East London, Beckham expressed his deep pride and humility for receiving such recognition.
Oscar-winning actor Gary Oldman was knighted for his profound contributions to drama, spanning both stage and screen. Oldman earned an Academy Award for portraying Winston Churchill in the film “Darkest Hour” and recently captivated audiences with his role in the Apple TV series “Slow Horses.”
Roger Daltrey, co-founder of the legendary rock band The Who, received his knighthood not only for his influential music career but also for his extensive charity work, notably his patronage of the Teenage Cancer Trust since 2000. He has led the charity’s concerts at Royal Albert Hall for more than two decades. Daltrey voiced his gratitude, emphasizing the personal significance of the honor due to his involvement in philanthropy.
**Celebrated Dames**
Elaine Paige was honored for her lifetime contributions to music and charitable work, including roles supporting youth with brain injuries and promoting opportunities for disabled tennis players. She conveyed being overwhelmed by the mixed emotions of pride, gratitude, and surprise.
Pat Barker, the author renowned for the “Regeneration Trilogy,” was similarly surprised by her damehood, initially mistaking it for a tax notice because of the paper’s quality. Once recognized, the significance of the award deeply resonated with her.
Penny Mordaunt, who came into the spotlight during King Charles’ 2023 coronation by performing the ceremonial role previously never assigned to a woman, acknowledged the honor warmly, having shifted from political life after her party’s election loss.
**Artistic Excellence**
Sculptor Antony Gormley was elevated to the prestigious title of “Companion of Honour,” an award introduced in 1917 by King George V. This exceptional recognition is reserved for individuals with standout contributions in arts, science, medicine, or government. With only 65 companions concurrently holding this distinction, it’s a testament to Gormley’s enduring impact on the art world.
**Recognition Beyond Fame**
The honors extend well beyond high-profile recipients, encompassing over 1,200 individuals from various walks of life. Notably, women constituted 48% of the honorees, while 11% identified as belonging to ethnic minority communities. A remarkable acknowledgment went to 106-year-old WWII veteran William Irwin, who was awarded a British Empire Medal for his community service.
Breaking age records, 11-year-old Carmela Chillery-Watson, an advocate for disability awareness diagnosed with LMNA congenital muscular dystrophy, became the youngest recipient of the Member of the Most Excellent Order of the British Empire, recognized for her fundraising efforts for Muscular Dystrophy UK.
In a first, one family saw three members recognized simultaneously. Jenna Speirs, together with her parents Caroline and Duncan, received the British Empire Medal for founding a children’s cancer charity named Calum’s Cabin, inspired by Jenna’s twin brother’s battle with an inoperable brain tumor.
Efforts against knife crime were also acknowledged. Pooja Kanda, whose son was killed, and Alison Madgin, who lost her daughter in similar circumstances, were honored with the OBE and MBE, respectively, for their campaigning work.