David Beckham and Gary Oldman knighted in King’s birthday honours

David Beckham and Gary Oldman Receive Knighthoods in King Charles III’s Birthday Honours

Former England football captain David Beckham and celebrated actor Gary Oldman have been awarded knighthoods in the 2025 King’s Birthday Honours, joining an illustrious list of individuals recognized for their contributions to British life. This annual tradition celebrates figures from diverse fields, from the arts and sports to charity and public service, and is one of the highest civilian honours in the UK.

David Beckham: A Sporting Icon Honoured

At 50, David Beckham’s knighthood is a testament to both his impact on the football world and his extensive charitable work. Beckham began his professional journey with Manchester United in 1993, making almost 400 appearances and helping the club secure a host of domestic and international titles. His illustrious career saw him move on to major clubs such as Real Madrid, LA Galaxy, and AC Milan. Beckham’s leadership qualities were evident as he captained the England national team 58 times, amassing a total of 115 caps for his country.

Beyond the pitch, Beckham’s profile grew through his marriage to Victoria Beckham, a fashion designer and former member of the Spice Girls. Their partnership has long placed them in the global celebrity spotlight. Notably, Beckham has been recognized for his philanthropic contributions—his work with UNICEF and Malaria No More has made significant impacts over the last two decades, following his earlier OBE recognition. Reflecting on his accolade, he described his knighthood as a “truly humbling honour” and spoke of his pride in representing his country, fulfilling what he called “a boyhood dream come true” (read more from The Independent’s coverage).

Gary Oldman: From Stage to Screen Legend

Gary Oldman, 67, renowned for his versatility and depth as an actor, also received a knighthood. Oldman’s career began on the stage as part of the Royal Shakespeare Company before he transitioned to film, where he earned critical acclaim for a string of powerful roles. His portrayal of Winston Churchill in the 2017 film Darkest Hour earned him an Academy Award for Best Actor. He’s also known for memorable performances in blockbuster franchises such as the Dark Knight Trilogy and the Harry Potter series, and more recently, the spy drama Slow Horses, which has garnered strong reviews from critics and viewers alike (explore his full filmography on IMDb).

A Star-Studded List of Honourees

This year’s honours list also includes damehoods for notable figures like musical theatre star Elaine Paige, Booker Prize-winning novelist Pat Barker, and renowned ceramics maker Emma Bridgewater. Roger Daltrey, iconic lead singer of The Who and patron of the Teenage Cancer Trust, was knighted for his services to music and charity.

The selection process is rigorous: nominees are considered by committees of civil servants, based on recommendations from both the government and the public. Traditionally, honours are announced twice a year—in June for the King’s official birthday, marked by the annual Trooping the Colour parade, and again at New Year. The awards ceremonies typically take place at Buckingham Palace, with either the King or a senior royal presenting them.

Elaine Paige remarked about her damehood on Instagram, offering gratitude for the recognition of her contribution to British musical theatre, while Beckham’s knighthood has been widely celebrated across social media, with fans congratulating him and reflecting on his legendary status in world football.

Celebrating Achievement and Service to Britain

More than 1,200 people across the UK received honours for their dedication and achievements, highlighting a special appreciation for those committed to public service and charity work. The 2025 Birthday Honours serve as a reminder of the diverse talent and generosity within British society.

For more on the King’s Honours and the full list of recipients, visit the official government site. To read additional reactions and statements from honourees and the public, follow ongoing coverage in leading outlets such as The Independent and BBC News.

Explore related stories and the cultural significance of the British Honours system on the UK government’s Honours page.