Actors Carey Mulligan, Stephen Fry, and Nobel-winning author Kazuo Ishiguro were among the notable figures recognized in the New Year Honors announced on Monday.
The awards, which highlight contributions to British society across various fields, celebrate the achievements of artists, athletes, public servants, and community heroes. This year’s list underscores a commitment to acknowledging excellence both in the public eye and among those whose efforts often go unnoticed.
Carey Mulligan, known for her powerful performances in films such as An Education and Promising Young Woman, received the title of Commander of the Order of the British Empire (CBE) for her outstanding services to drama.
The three-time Oscar nominee has long been celebrated for her nuanced portrayals of complex characters, and her recognition reflects her influence on British cinema and theater. Mulligan’s contributions extend beyond the screen, with her active involvement in charitable causes that amplify her legacy as a respected figure in the arts.
Stephen Fry, beloved for his work in the BBC comedy Blackadder and his comedic partnership with Hugh Laurie, was knighted for his extensive contributions to entertainment, literature, and public advocacy. Fry’s talents span acting, writing, and broadcasting, but his dedication to raising awareness about mental health and environmental issues sets him apart.
As the president of the mental health charity Mind and a supporter of Fauna and Flora International, Fry has championed causes that have a lasting impact on society. Reflecting on his knighthood, Fry shared his surprise and delight, recalling his tumultuous childhood and how far he has come.
Nobel laureate Kazuo Ishiguro, author of acclaimed novels such as The Remains of the Day and Never Let Me Go, was named a Companion of Honor for his contributions to literature. Ishiguro’s works, known for their emotional depth and exploration of human vulnerability, have resonated globally.
This honor, one of the highest distinctions in the U.K., recognizes his profound influence on contemporary storytelling and his enduring impact on the literary world. Already knighted, Ishiguro’s elevation to Companion of Honor underscores the cultural significance of his body of work.
In addition to these cultural icons, the honors list celebrated achievements in sports, with former England soccer manager Gareth Southgate receiving a knighthood. Southgate’s leadership of the national team brought them to the finals of Euro 2020 and 2024, as well as the semi-finals of the 2018 World Cup, restoring pride and hope to English football fans.
Athletes Keely Hodgkinson and Dina Asher-Smith were also recognized for their Olympic successes. Hodgkinson, a gold medalist in the 800-meter track race in Paris, and Asher-Smith, a three-time Olympic medalist and 2019 200-meter world champion, were named Members of the Order of the British Empire (MBE).
Cyclist Tom Pidcock, a two-time Olympic mountain bike champion and winner of prestigious road cycling races, was awarded the title of Officer of the Order of the British Empire (OBE).
Pidcock’s remarkable versatility across cycling disciplines has made him a standout athlete on the global stage. His recognition highlights the honors’ acknowledgment of both individual excellence and contributions to elevating British sport.
The youngest honorees on this year’s list were 18-year-olds Mikayla Beames and William Ellard. Beames received the British Empire Medal (BEM) for her fundraising efforts to support children with cancer, showcasing the extraordinary impact of young people in their communities.
Ellard, a two-time Paralympic gold medalist in swimming, was named an MBE for his athletic achievements and advocacy for adaptive sports, reflecting the importance of inclusivity in British society.
The oldest recipient was 103-year-old Colin Bell, a World War II pilot recognized for his dedication to public speaking and charitable fundraising. Awarded a BEM, Bell’s continued contributions demonstrate that the spirit of service knows no age limit. His inclusion on the list serves as an inspiration, honoring a lifetime of resilience, bravery, and giving back to others.
Prime Minister Keir Starmer praised the honorees, emphasizing the importance of recognizing individuals who make extraordinary contributions to their communities. “Each and every day, ordinary people go out and do extraordinary things for their communities,” Starmer said.
“The New Year Honors List celebrates more of these unsung heroes, and I thank them for their incredible contribution.” This year’s list is a reminder of the diverse ways people shape and enrich British society, from global achievements to grassroots efforts.
The honors, rooted in centuries-old traditions of orders of chivalry, now reflect a modern approach to recognizing excellence. They are vetted by a government committee before being passed on to the prime minister and King Charles III for final approval. The process ensures that a broad range of contributions is celebrated, reinforcing the values of service and dedication.
Fry, reflecting on his knighthood, shared a deeply personal perspective. “I think of my childhood, and my dreadful unhappiness and misery and stupidity, and everything that led to so many failures as a child,” he said.
“For my parents, really, what a disaster. Every time the phone rang, they thought, ‘Oh, God, what has Stephen done now?’ It was a sort of joke in the family.” His journey from troubled youth to celebrated public figure highlights the transformative power of resilience and purpose.
These semi-annual honors not only celebrate prominent figures but also highlight the efforts of individuals who quietly make a difference in their communities. From artists and athletes to educators and fundraisers, this year’s list serves as a testament to the varied ways people contribute to the betterment of society. As the honorees bask in the recognition of their achievements, their stories continue to inspire others across the United Kingdom and beyond.
