David Beckham and Gary Oldman have received knighthoods in the King’s annual Birthday Honours list. The list, announced on Saturday, also includes sculptor Antony Gormley, who was named a Companion of Honour.
Beckham and Oldman honoured for career achievements
Beckham, 50, began his football career at Manchester United in 1993. He made nearly 400 appearances for the club and won several league titles and cups. He later played for Real Madrid, LA Galaxy, and Inter Milan. Beckham also earned 115 caps for England, serving as captain in 58 matches. His 1999 marriage to Victoria Beckham, a designer and former Spice Girl, raised his public profile beyond football.
Oldman, 67, started on stage with the Royal Shakespeare Company. He went on to build a successful film career. He won an Oscar for his role as Winston Churchill in Darkest Hour (2017). His other work includes The Dark Knight trilogy, the Harry Potter films, and the TV series Slow Horses.
Arts and charity work also recognised
Sculptor Antony Gormley, known for the Angel of the North, was appointed a Companion of Honour for his contribution to British art.
Elaine Paige received a damehood for her work in musical theatre. Novelist Pat Barker and ceramics designer Emma Bridgewater were also made dames.
Roger Daltrey, lead singer of The Who, was knighted for his charity work. He has long supported the Teenage Cancer Trust.
More than 1,200 people were honoured this year. Many were recognised for public service, according to the government.
The announcement came ahead of the Trooping the Colour parade in London. The event marks the official celebration of King Charles III’s birthday, although his actual birthday is on 14 November.
