Idris Elba, Cynthia Erivo and Ellie Goulding are among the entertainment figures included in the 2026 New Year Honours list.
There are 1,157 recipients in this year’s list, which celebrates individual outstanding achievements and contributions to British society.
Actor Idris Elba has been knighted for services to young people, having founded the Elba Hope Foundation and launching an anti-knife crime campaign.
Upon receiving the honour the A House Of Dynamite star said (via Sky News): “I receive this honour on behalf of the many young people whose talent, ambition and resilience has driven the work of the Elba Hope Foundation.
“I hope we can do more to draw attention to the importance of sustained, practical support for young people and to the responsibility we all share to help them find an alternative to violence.”
Wicked: For Good star Cynthia Erivo is appointed an MBE, as is Ellie Goulding who is recognised for her work as an environmental ambassador.
Elsewhere, actor and presenter Warwick Davis, quiz-show-host-turned-author Richard Osman and Little Britain comedian Matt Lucas are awarded OBEs, while comedian Bill Bailey, actor Sally Lindsay and children’s TV star Paul Chuckle are made MBEs.
Osman, author of The Thursday Murder Club book series, said he was “absolutely thrilled” with the honour, while Davis added: “This is the best thing that’s ever happened to me and I’ve been in Star Wars.”
Comedy actor and writer Meera Syal has also been awarded a damehood as has England women’s football coach Sarina Wiegman while England captain and two-time European champion Leah Williamson is made a CBE and Ella Toone, Keira Walsh, Alex Greenwood and Georgia Stanway are all given MBEs after their Euros win in the summer.
Prime Minister Keir Starmer said: “This year’s Honours list celebrates the very best of Britain – people who put the common good ahead of themselves to strengthen communities and change lives.
“Their quiet dedication speaks to the decent, compassionate country we are proud to be. On behalf of the whole nation, thank you – and congratulations to everyone recognised today.”
Last year’s list included Steve Lamacq, Stephen Fry, Eddie Marsan and Carey Mulligan.
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