King Charles III has unveiled his 2025 New Year Honours list, celebrating the remarkable achievements of 1,150 individuals from across the United Kingdom. The annual tradition, which recognises outstanding contributions to public life, spans from global entertainment icons to dedicated local community heroes.
Stars and Sporting Legends Receive Top Accolades
Hollywood actor Idris Elba has been awarded a knighthood for his services to young people. The star, famed for roles in "The Wire" and "A House of Dynamite", co-founded the Elba Hope Foundation with his wife, Sabrina, to tackle knife crime, education, and poverty. Accepting the honour, Sir Idris dedicated it to the young people supported by his charity, urging for more sustained, practical support to steer youth away from violence.
Fellow performer Cynthia Erivo, a star of the film "Wicked", was appointed a Member of the Order of the British Empire (MBE) for her services to music and drama.
In the world of sport, the legendary ice dancing partnership of Jayne Torvill and Christopher Dean received top honours. The duo, who won Olympic gold in Sarajevo in 1984, were recognised with a damehood for Torvill and a knighthood for Dean.
Celebrating Lifelong Service and Community Spirit
The list powerfully illustrates that honours are not solely the preserve of the famous. John Hearn, a 102-year-old known as "Judo Jack," received a British Empire Medal (BEM). He holds the Guinness World Record as the planet's oldest judo instructor.
Other notable recipients include author and comedian Richard Osman, who becomes an Officer of the Order of the British Empire (OBE). Retired marathon world record holder Paula Radcliffe also receives an OBE. Furthermore, 101-year-old D-Day veteran Mervyn Kersh was awarded a BEM for his school talks on Holocaust remembrance and his wartime service.
The Enduring Tradition of the UK Honours System
The UK honours system has its roots in the Middle Ages, when monarchs rewarded service with land and titles. Today, it has evolved into a modern hierarchy of honorary distinctions, awarded by the sovereign on government advice to recognise achievement in areas like the arts, sport, public service, and community work.
While knighthoods and damehoods represent the most prestigious accolades, the Order of the British Empire has three main ranks: Commander (CBE), Officer (OBE), and Member (MBE). The honours are announced twice yearly, at New Year and on the King's official birthday, with presentation ceremonies held throughout the year.
This year's list of 1,150 honourees continues the tradition of celebrating not only high-profile politicians, artists, and athletes but also the countless librarians, charity workers, and civil servants who serve their communities with dedication and little fanfare.
