Share and Follow
Arise, Sir David! (Image: Getty)
The King’s Birthday Honours list is out — and it’s packed with big names from the world of showbiz, sport and beyond. Every June, the monarch dishes out gongs to recognise Brits who’ve gone above and beyond, whether that’s in their career, charity work, or public service. From OBEs to knighthoods, the honours system is a national tradition — and a royal seal of approval that carries serious weight.
The process starts with public nominations and goes through government checks before landing on the King’s desk for the final say. But this year’s batch has a seriously starry feel — with Strictly icons and one of the biggest names in football leading the charge. From glitterballs to golden boots, here’s the list of celebs that officially made the honours list in 2025…
Read More… Express readers debate Nigel Farage getting knighthood in new honours list [LATEST]
x (Image: Getty)
Claudia Winkleman
She’s the fringe-wearing queen of Saturday night telly — and now Claudia Winkleman has a royal honour to match her BAFTA.
The Strictly Come Dancing and Traitors host has been praised for her services to broadcasting, winning over viewers with her dry wit, quirky style and no-nonsense charm.
The 53-year-old is a favourite of Queen Camilla — who’s called herself one of Strictly’s “greatest fans” — and has become one of the most trusted faces on the box.
Whether it’s overseeing her backstabbing traitors in a Scottish castle or introducing the Paso Doble, Claudia’s officially earned her spot on the honours list.
c (Image: Getty)
Tess Daly
Tess Daly has been waltzing into our living rooms for over 20 years — and now she’s been honoured by the King for it.
The 56-year-old presenter has fronted Strictly Come Dancing since day one, first alongside the late Sir Bruce Forsyth and now as one half of the much-loved Tess and Claudia double act.
She’s known for her glitzy gowns, steady hand and pure class on live telly — and even took to the floor herself in 2008, winning the Children in Need special with Anton Du Beke. Her place on the honours list is the glittering cherry on top.
x (Image: Getty)
David Beckham
Football legend David Beckham can now officially add Sir to his name. The 49-year-old global icon has been knighted in the 2025 honours list for his services to sport and charity.
Already an OBE holder since 2003, Becks has racked up trophies with Manchester United, captained England, and become one of the most recognisable faces in the world.
But it’s not just about the pitch — he’s also a UNICEF ambassador and recently signed on to work with The King’s Foundation.
Whether he’s bending free kicks or backing causes, Sir David is now in a league of his own.
Oscar-winning actor Gary Oldman has officially been listed in the King’s Birthday Honours (Image: Getty)
Sir Gary Oldman
Oscar-winning actor Gary Oldman has officially been listed in the King’s Birthday Honours, cementing his place as British film royalty.
The 67-year-old, known for powerhouse roles in Darkest Hour, Tinker Tailor Soldier Spy, and Harry Potter, has been recognised for his decades-long contribution to cinema.
From Churchill to Sirius Black, Oldman’s chameleon-like talent and global success have made him one of the UK’s most respected performers. Now, he can add “Sir Gary” to an already glittering CV.
x (Image: Getty)
Sir Roger Daltrey
The Who frontman Roger Daltrey is finally set to receive a knighthood and be honoured not just for his legendary rock career but also his tireless charity work.
The 81-year-old music icon has raised millions for the Teenage Cancer Trust and remains one of Britain’s most recognisable voices.
From leading the Mod movement to smashing guitars on stage, Daltrey helped define a generation.
His upcoming knighthood marks a long-awaited royal seal of approval for both his musical legacy and philanthropic impact.
x (Image: Getty)
Anita Dobson – OBE
Anita Dobson, best known for playing the fiery Angie Watts on EastEnders, has been awarded an OBE in the King’s Honours list.
Now 76, the TV legend is recognised not just for her acting but for her years of philanthropic work.
A beloved face of British drama, Dobson’s contributions off-screen — supporting health and arts charities — have now earned her a place on the nation’s official honours roll.
x (Image: Getty)
Tracy-Ann Oberman – MBE
Actress and writer Tracy-Ann Oberman, 58, has been awarded an MBE for her work in Holocaust education and tackling antisemitism.
A familiar face from EastEnders, Doctor Who and Friday Night Dinner, Oberman has used her platform to speak out against hate and champion Jewish history and awareness.
The star, who alread has an OBE, is recognised both her screen presence and tireless campaigning — making her a standout in this year’s honours list.