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

LONDON – June 13, 2025 — Former England football captain David Beckham and Oscar-winning actor Gary Oldman have been knighted in King Charles III’s official birthday honours list, released on Saturday. 

The list also recognised acclaimed sculptor Antony Gormley, who was named a Companion of Honour.

Beckham, 50, was honoured for his services to football and charity. A Manchester United legend, he joined the club’s youth ranks in 1993 and went on to make nearly 400 senior appearances, securing multiple Premier League titles and FA Cups. His international career saw him earn 115 caps for England, 58 as captain. His profile grew further through his marriage to former Spice Girl and fashion designer Victoria Beckham, making him a global cultural icon.

Oldman, 67, was recognised for his contribution to drama. He began his acting career with the Royal Shakespeare Company before making a significant impact in film. He won an Academy Award for Best Actor for his portrayal of Winston Churchill in Darkest Hour (2017) and is also known for roles in the Harry Potter films, Christopher Nolan’s Dark Knight Trilogy, and more recently the critically acclaimed series Slow Horses.

Sculptor Antony Gormley, famed for works such as the Angel of the North, received one of the highest recognitions in the arts as he was made a Companion of Honour, a title limited to just 65 people at a time.

Celebrating Excellence in Arts and Public Service

The list of over 1,200 recipients highlights achievements across fields including the arts, sport, science, and public service. Among those awarded damehoods were musical theatre icon Elaine Paige, Booker Prize-winning novelist Pat Barker, and celebrated ceramics designer Emma Bridgewater.

Roger Daltrey, lead singer of legendary rock band The Who and a long-time patron of the Teenage Cancer Trust, was knighted for his extensive charitable work.

The British government said the honours particularly recognised individuals who had dedicated their lives to public and community service, both nationally and locally.

Trooping the Colour to Mark Official Birthday

The announcement comes as celebrations take place in London for King Charles’ official birthday, marked with the traditional Trooping the Colour parade. Though the monarch’s actual birthday is on November 14, the official celebration occurs in June to take advantage of more favourable weather.