Sir Gary Oldman leads King’s honours

Oscar-winning actor Gary Oldman has officially been knighted in King Charles III's Birthday Honours, recognising a decades-long career defined by range, depth, and acclaim. The veteran star, best known for Darkest Hour and the hit Apple TV series Slow Horses, described the honour as "mind-boggling" and "humbling," expressing pride in joining the ranks of celebrated actors like Sir Daniel Day-Lewis and Sir Kenneth Branagh.

Oldman, who began his career in the early 1980s, gained widespread respect for his transformative performances across genres—from Sid and Nancy to Tinker Tailor Soldier Spy—culminating in an Oscar win for his portrayal of Winston Churchill. This is his first royal honour, and one he previously suggested might come "in the future." That future has now arrived.

Among the 1,215 honourees this year is former England football captain David Beckham, who also received a long-anticipated knighthood. The list includes figures from across public life, from teenage darts sensation Luke Littler to community champions, with nearly half of all recipients being women. Oldman now adds "Sir" to his many accolades—an honour both fitting and long overdue.