Actor Damien Lewis, writer Ian Rankin and former Northern Ireland First Minister Arlene Foster were among more than 1,100 people recognized by Britain’s Queen Elizabeth on her annual birthday.
The list, released to mark the 96-year-old monarch’s official birthday, honors recipients for their “outstanding” contributions; Most awards recognize public service or community work.
This year’s honors are preceded by a four-day national celebration that begins Thursday to commemorate Elizabeth’s 70 years on the throne.
“This historic Platinum Jubilee is a celebration not only of the monarch, but of his virtues,” Prime Minister Boris Johnson said. “The accolades she is giving this week reflect the many qualities that are invaluable in all walks of life and in communities across the UK. »
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Lewis, who won a Golden Globe for his role in the television drama ‘Homeland’, received CBE (Commander of the Order of the British Empire) for his services to both theater and charity to launch a campaign with his late wife Helen McCrory was created. To raise £1 million to provide food for healthcare workers during the COVID-19 pandemic.
Foster, who was the British provincial head between 2016 and 2021, was among the politicians to be honored and became a Dame, while crime writer Ian Rankin, creator of the acclaimed series Inspector Rebus, receives a knighthood.
First Knights author Salman Rushdie and famed illustrator Quentin Blake, best known for their work on Roald Dahl’s children’s books, have been named Companions of Honor, of which there are only 65 at a time.
From the world of sports, former England footballer Rio Ferdinand has been made an OBE (Officer of the Order of the British Empire), while Welsh football captain Gareth Bale, Liverpool legend James Milner and English cricketer Moeen Ali have all been made MBEs (Members). has been appointed. Order of the British Empire).
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The gold medal-winning British Olympic women’s curling team also received an OBE.
Elizabeth Murdoch, daughter of media baron Rupert Murdoch and founder of two successful independent TV production companies, has been awarded a CBE for her work with Arts Council England.
Among the 1,134 people who received the honor was Angela Redgrave, founder and principal of the Bristol School of Dancing, who received the British Empire Medal, and at the age of 104, she was the oldest recipient on the list.