King Charles III has unveiled the prestigious New Year Honours list for 2026, celebrating the exceptional achievements and service of more than 1,157 individuals from the United Kingdom and beyond. The list, a tradition dating back to at least 1890, recognises a diverse array of talent from acting and sports to business and community service, honouring both famous faces and unsung heroes.
Stars of Screen and Sport Receive Top Honours
The 2026 honours list features several prominent names from the world of entertainment and athletics. Acclaimed actor Idris Elba, famous for his roles in "Luther" and "The Wire," has been awarded a knighthood. This recognition comes not just for his artistic work but specifically for his dedicated campaigning against knife crime among young people.
In the sporting arena, the legendary ice dancing duo Jayne Torvill and Christopher Dean, whose iconic "Bolero" performance at the 1984 Olympics captivated the nation, have been honoured. Torvill receives the title of Dame, while Dean becomes a Knight, cementing their status as British sporting icons.
Following the historic back-to-back European Championship victories of the England women's football team, their Dutch coach, Sarina Wiegman, has been awarded an honorary damehood. Several key players from the triumphant Lionesses squad have also been recognised in the list.
Broad Recognition Across Arts, Business, and Charity
The honours extend far beyond the spotlight, acknowledging contributions across society. Oscar-nominated and multi-award-winning actor Cynthia Erivo, celebrated for her lead role in the 2024 film "Wicked," is appointed an Officer of the Order of the British Empire (OBE).
Actor Warwick Davis, known for his roles in "Star Wars" and "Harry Potter," receives an OBE for his services to charity and the arts, notably as the founder of the dwarfism charity Little People UK. Actress and writer Meera Syal, a beloved figure for works like "Goodness Gracious Me" and "The Kumars at No. 42," is made a Dame.
The business world is represented with honours for leaders like Simon Roberts, CEO of supermarket chain Sainsbury's, and John Pettigrew, former boss of National Grid, both receiving the title of Commander of the Order of the British Empire (CBE).
A Celebration of Service and Community
Prime Minister Keir Starmer, in a statement, praised the recipients, saying this year's list "celebrates the very best of Britain – people who put the common good ahead of themselves to strengthen communities and change lives." The honours aim to spotlight not only well-known figures but also those whose dedicated, often unseen work has enriched national life over many years.
The awards conferred range from Member, Officer, and Commander of the Order of the British Empire (MBE, OBE, CBE) to the highest distinctions of knighthoods and damehoods. All the honoured individuals are scheduled to receive their awards at formal investiture ceremonies later in 2026, which will be held at royal residences including Buckingham Palace.
