Football icon David Beckham and acclaimed actor Gary Oldman are among the luminaries recognised in King Charles III's 2025 Birthday Honours list, a roll call of individuals celebrated for their exceptional contributions to public life, arts, and charitable work. The list, released late Friday, also shines a spotlight on hundreds of unsung heroes from across the UK, lauded for their tireless dedication to their communities.
Beckham, the former England football captain, has been awarded a knighthood for his services to sport and his extensive charity work. Sir David's recognition follows a storied career on the pitch and a subsequent chapter dedicated to philanthropy, including his long-standing role as a UNICEF Goodwill Ambassador.
Joining the ranks of knights is the celebrated actor Gary Oldman, who receives the honour for his services to drama. Sir Gary, an Academy Award winner, has been a towering figure in cinema for decades, known for his versatile and powerful performances.
The arts are well-represented in this year's honours. Legendary rock singer Roger Daltrey of The Who has also been knighted for his services to music and his extensive work with the Teenage Cancer Trust.
The honours extend across the spectrum of British society. The list of Dames Commander of the Order of the British Empire (DBE) includes notable figures from the worlds of science, business, and public service.
Numerous individuals have been appointed as Officers of the Order of the British Empire (OBE), Members of the Order of the British Empire (MBE), and Medallists of the Order of the British Empire (BEM) for their outstanding work in a variety of fields. These awards recognise the significant impact of individuals on a local and national level, from pioneering medical research to grassroots community organising.
The biannual honours list, published in celebration of the monarch's official birthday, continues a long-standing tradition of recognising merit, service, and bravery. The selection process is overseen by a series of committees that review nominations from the public, ensuring that the awards reflect the diverse achievements of people from all walks of life.
The full list, published in the official public record, The Gazette, details the contributions of each recipient, painting a picture of a nation enriched by the dedication and talent of its citizens. The investiture ceremonies, where the recipients will formally receive their honours from a member of the Royal Family, will take place at a later date.
