10 Stars That You Probably Didn’t Know Were Honored by the Queen

Any citizen who has particularly distinguished themselves in their profession or industry, or who has made a valuable contribution to charity and the well-being of society, can become closer to royalty and receive honors. It is not surprising that celebrities who have become famous for their brilliant acting, achievements in sports, or selfless aid to those in need can receive a royal title.

You most likely knew about the royal titles of some celebrities, like Sir Elton John. But we bet you had no idea about the titles of many other stars. Here are 10 celebs you may be surprised to learn were honored by the royal family.

1. Keira Knightley

The Pirates of the Caribbean star was awarded an OBE (Officer of the Most Excellent Order of the British Empire) in 2018. Keira Knightly was honored by the royal family for her contribution to drama and charity work.

2. Benedict Cumberbatch

Benedict Cumberbatch, best known for his roles in the TV series, Sherlock, and the successful biopic, The Imitation Game, received the title Commander of the Most Excellent Order of the British Empire (CBE) from the late Queen Elizabeth II in 2015. Being named CBE is an honor for those who excel in the arts, sciences, and charity.

3. Eddie Redmayne

The brilliant Oscar-winner, Eddie Redmayne, got his honors in 2016. An actor famous for his roles in The Theory of Everything, Les Misérables, and the Fantastic Beasts franchise was awarded the Order of the British Empire (OBE) for his “service to drama.” Interestingly, Redmayne could not accept the award that awaited him for quite a long time due to the strict filming schedule and promotional tour of the first part of Fantastic Beasts.

4. Helena Bonham Carter

The actress known for her work in numerous movies, including the role of Bellatrix Lestrange in the Harry Potter franchise, was recognized by the late Queen for outstanding achievement and service to drama in 2012. Helena Bonham Carter, who portrayed Princess Elizabeth in the Oscar-winning The King’s Speech, got a CBE (Commander of the Order of the British Empire).

5. Ed Sheeran

In 2017, the English singer, songwriter, and musician who’s been awarded for his talents multiple times worldwide got honored by the royal family for his services to music and charity. Ed Sheeran got an MBE, making him a member of the Most Excellent Order of the British Empire.

6. Maggie Smith

Dame Margaret Natalie Smith started acting at the beginning of the 1950s. During her fruitful career, she got dozens of awards for her work in theater, on the big screen, and in television. Smith gained worldwide popularity for her role in the Harry Potter franchise and Downtown Abbey series. For her contributions to the performing arts, she was appointed Commander of the Order of the British Empire in 1978 and became a Dame in 1990. In 2014, Smith was made a Member of the Order of the Companions of Honour. She is the third actress in the world to receive this honor.

7. Ewan McGregor

An actor loved worldwide by millions of Star Wars prequel trilogy fans for his role as the wise mentor, Obi-Wan Kenobi, was appointed Officer of the Order of the British Empire (OBE) in 2013. Ewan McGregor was distinguished for his services to drama and charity and wore a kilt for the award ceremony.

8. David Beckham

The legendary soccer star got his honors from the late Elizabeth II almost 20 years ago. He was named an Officer of the Order of the British Empire (OBE) at Buckingham Palace for services to the game of soccer. Beckham, who had already won several championships and prestigious awards with his teams, mentioned receiving this title as the most significant honor. “This is probably the best I’ve received so far. It’s an amazing day for me,” he shared.

9. Kate Winslet

The star of Titanic and an Oscar-winner for the role in The Reader was appointed Commander of the Order of the British Empire for her services to drama in 2012. Winslet told reporters she discussed motherhood with the Queen during the award ceremony. Elizabeth II asked if the actress enjoyed acting. “I said yes, I liked it, but not as much as being a mother. She said, ’It is the best job,’” the actress shared.

10. Adele

The award-winning singer has already won Grammys as well as a Golden Globe and an Oscar for the Skyfall soundtrack. For her “services to music” in 2013, Adele was honored by the Royal Family: she was awarded an MBE (Member of the Most Excellent Order of the British Empire).

Bonus: Daniel Craig

In October 2022, Daniel Craig visited Windsor Castle to receive the last honor that was awarded to him by the Queen. This January, Her Majesty made Craig a Companion of the Order of St. Michael and St. George for his services to film and theater. The actor received the honor from Princess Anne, the Queen’s daughter. Now Craig has another thing in common with his character, James Bond. He received the same title Agent 007 held!

Which of your favorite celebrities deserves the royal title? Share in the comments!