Actor Idris Elba has been knighted and actress-writer Meera Syal has received a damehood in King Charles III’s New Year’s Honours list 2026, announced on 29 December. Elba received a Knighthood for services to young people, after launching prominent campaigns for youth empowerment and anti-knife crime. The actor co-founded Elba Hope Foundation with his wife, Sabrina Elba, for supporting and empowering diaspora communities. Britain’s honours system dates back to the Middle Ages, when monarchs rewarded service to the Crown with land, money and titles. The most prestigious honours are knighthoods and damehoods, which entitle recipients to use the titles Sir or Dame.

Source: The Telegraph December 30, 2025 13:52 UTC