The 2026 New Year honours list, published on Monday, recognised over 1,157 individuals across politics, sports, the arts, and community service, awarding titles ranging from Member, Commander, and Officer of the Order of the British Empire to knighthoods and damehoods.
Key Honourees
- Idris Elba was knighted for his anti-knife crime advocacy and engagement with young people, adding to his acclaim as a celebrated actor in Luther and The Wire.
- Jayne Torvill and Christopher Dean, legendary ice dancers whose 1984 Olympic Bolero performance earned perfect scores, were recognised with a damehood and knighthood, respectively.
- Sarina Wiegman, the Dutch coach of England’s women’s soccer team, received an honorary damehood following the Lionesses’ back-to-back Euro titles. Several team members were also acknowledged.
Other Notable Honourees
- Cynthia Erivo, Oscar-nominated and Emmy, Grammy, and Tony-winning actor, received an OBE for her contributions to the performing arts, including her acclaimed role in Wicked (2024).
- Warwick Davis, famed for Star Wars, Harry Potter, and Willow, and founder of the dwarfism charity Little People UK, was awarded an OBE.
- Meera Syal, celebrated actor and writer (Goodness Gracious Me, The Kumars at No. 42), was made a dame.
- Simon Roberts, CEO of Sainsbury’s, and former National Grid head John Pettigrew received CBEs for their business leadership.
Significance of the Honours
Prime Minister Keir Starmer highlighted that the honours celebrate individuals who prioritise the common good, strengthen communities, and make lasting contributions to national life, including often unsung work over many years.
Recipients will receive their awards at investiture ceremonies later in 2026 at royal residences, including Buckingham Palace.
