Idris Elba and Richard Osman lead a distinguished group of entertainment and sporting figures named in King Charles III’s 2026 New Year Honours list, per digitalspy.com.
The Luther star has been knighted for services to young people, recognising his work with the Elba Hope Foundation. Sir Idris dedicated the honour to the “talent, ambition and resilience” of the youth the foundation supports, noting his hope that the award draws attention to the “responsibility we all share to help them find an alternative to violence.”
Richard Osman was made an OBE alongside Star Wars actor Warwick Davis and broadcaster Gabby Logan. Osman expressed he was “absolutely thrilled” with the news, while Davis described the recognition as “the best thing that’s ever happened to me.” Elsewhere, Wicked star Cynthia Erivo received an MBE for services to music and drama, stating she hopes the honour shows her deep care for the arts.
The list also celebrates a golden year for British sport. Lionesses captain Leah Williamson was made a CBE, while manager Sarina Wiegman received an honorary damehood following the team’s European success. Players Alex Greenwood, Keira Walsh, Georgia Stanway, and Ella Toone were all awarded MBEs. Additionally, members of the England women’s rugby team were recognised for their 2025 World Cup victory, and marathon legend Paula Radcliffe was made an OBE.
