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What childhood dreams did you harbor? Did you aspire to be a musician, an actor, or even a noble knight? Remarkably, some celebrities on this list have turned these dreams into reality. For centuries, the British royal family has awarded prestigious titles under the Order of the British Empire, and a few lucky stars have been among the recipients.
In modern times, numerous celebrities have received these distinguished honors. Men are typically knighted, while women are often named dames. These titles recognize exceptional service, loyalty, or bravery—sometimes all three.
Our list features an unexpected array of names, from renowned authors and innovative inventors to legendary musicians and visionary directors. Each has earned their place as a knight or dame through remarkable achievements. While they share this prestigious honor, it’s safe to say none of them are likely skilled in jousting.
10. Angelina Jolie
Angelina Jolie is celebrated for numerous achievements. As the daughter of acclaimed actor Jon Voight, she has made a name for herself through her acting prowess, her high-profile relationship with Brad Pitt, and her dedication to charitable causes. In 2014, she was formally recognized as an exceptional actor and philanthropist, earning the title of Honorary Dame. Queen Elizabeth personally honored her at Buckingham Palace, presenting her with the emblem of an Honorary Dame Grand Cross of the Most Distinguished Order of St. Michael and St. George.
The royal family acknowledged Jolie for her efforts to combat sexual violence in war zones. In 2014, she co-chaired the global summit on Ending Sexual Violence in Conflict (ESVC). Throughout her career, Jolie has demonstrated immense compassion and generosity, supporting vital causes and organizations. While her damehood is just one of her many accolades, it stands as a testament to her impactful work and dedication. By all measures, she has rightfully earned this prestigious title.
9. Mick Jagger
Mick Jagger, the iconic frontman of the Rolling Stones, is a rock and roll legend. His knighthood, however, sparked public controversy, partly due to his unconventional past. Known for his rockstar lifestyle, Jagger faced multiple arrests and fathered eight children with five different women. The Rolling Stones, often seen as rebellious and anti-establishment, embody ideals that starkly contrast with those of the royal family.
Despite the backlash, Jagger accepted the knighthood, which was conferred by Queen Elizabeth rather than Prince Charles. His longtime bandmate, Keith Richards, openly criticized the decision, even declining his own knighthood offer. Richards famously remarked, “It’s not what the Stones is about, is it?” Nevertheless, the ceremony proceeded, and Jagger was officially knighted in 2003, proving that even rock legends can earn royal recognition.
8. J.K. Rowling
J.K. Rowling is globally renowned for her Harry Potter series and its spin-offs. Her literary achievements have earned her countless awards, cementing her status as one of the world’s most celebrated authors. The Harry Potter film adaptations have also achieved monumental success, with two actors from the franchise receiving honorary titles of their own.
Rowling herself has been honored with three prestigious titles. The British royal family awarded her an Order of the British Empire (OBE) and a Companion of Honor, while the French government knighted her in 2012 under President Nicolas Sarkozy. The OBE recognized her contributions to charitable and welfare organizations, including the founding of Lumos and the Volant Charitable Trust.
Much of Rowling’s philanthropic work focuses on supporting vulnerable women and children. Her French knighthood celebrated her contributions to literature, particularly as the fifth Harry Potter book, Harry Potter and The Order of The Phoenix, became the first English-language novel to top France’s bestseller list. Adding to her royal connections, two Harry Potter stars, Helena Bonham Carter and Maggie Smith, also hold OBE titles.
7. Helena Bonham Carter
Helena Bonham Carter is a highly acclaimed actress celebrated for her iconic roles in films such as Fight Club, Alice in Wonderland, Cinderella, Planet of the Apes, Corpse Bride, the Harry Potter series, and Lemony Snicket’s A Series of Unfortunate Events, among many others.
In 2010, she delivered a standout performance as Queen Elizabeth in The King’s Speech. Although she didn’t win the Oscar for Best Supporting Actress, she received a prestigious honor: a Commander of the Order of the British Empire (CBE) in 2011. She dedicated this award to her late father, recognizing her contributions to drama within the British Empire.
After receiving the CBE, Bonham Carter was appointed to Britain’s National Holocaust Commission, marking another significant achievement. Notably, she isn’t the only Harry Potter cast member to receive such an honor.
6. Maggie Smith
Maggie Smith, a legendary English actress with a career spanning since the 1950s, is globally recognized for her portrayal of Professor Minerva McGonagall, the stern yet beloved head of Gryffindor House at Hogwarts School of Witchcraft and Wizardry.
Long before the Harry Potter series came into existence, Maggie Smith had already earned an OBE, becoming a dame in 1990. She later received a second royal honor in 2014, following the success of the Harry Potter films, when she was named a Companion of Honor (CH). This prestigious title is reserved for individuals who have made significant contributions to arts, sciences, medicine, or government over an extended period. With a career spanning since 1952 and still active, Dame Maggie Smith undoubtedly meets the criteria.
5. Steven Spielberg
If you enjoy movies, chances are you’ve seen at least one film by Steven Spielberg. As one of the most influential directors in history, his iconic works include Jurassic Park, E.T., Saving Private Ryan, and Schindler’s List, among many others.
In recognition of his extraordinary impact on the film industry, Spielberg was awarded an honorary knighthood by the British royal family. It’s worth noting that only British citizens can receive official knighthoods or damehoods, making many titles on this list honorary.
Since 2000, Spielberg has held the title of Knight of the British Empire (KBE). For a man with such an illustrious career, this honorary knighthood is a fitting tribute. Perhaps this accolade will inspire his next cinematic masterpiece.
4. Bill Gates
Bill Gates, the co-founder of Microsoft and one of the wealthiest individuals globally, was honored not for his tech innovations but for his philanthropic endeavors post-retirement. His charitable initiatives span across the British Commonwealth, focusing on employment, entrepreneurship, education, and volunteerism.
Gates has dedicated his efforts to alleviating poverty in developing nations, often leveraging technological advancements. In recognition of his contributions, he was awarded the KBE (Knight Commander of the Most Excellent Order of the British Empire). While he cannot be formally addressed as “Sir Bill Gates” due to his non-British citizenship, he could use the title Bill Gates, KBE. Humor aside, his commitment to improving lives worldwide is truly inspiring.
3. Lewis Hamilton
Lewis Hamilton, the latest knight on our list, is a legendary Formula One driver and one of the most accomplished in the sport’s history. In 2021, he narrowly missed securing a record-breaking eighth championship title. Just days later, in December of the same year, Hamilton was knighted by the Prince of Wales at Windsor Castle, becoming the first active Grand Prix driver to receive this honor.
At the time of the knighthood ceremony, Hamilton was just 36 years old, with his mother proudly by his side. While missing out on his eighth championship title was undoubtedly disappointing, receiving a knighthood served as a remarkable consolation prize.
2. Elton John
Elton John, a legendary musician with global fame, hails from suburban London. Beyond his musical genius, he is celebrated for his openness about his sexuality, having come out as bisexual in 1975. In 1998, he became the first openly gay individual to be knighted.
Elton John has made significant contributions to numerous charities, notably the Elton John AIDS Foundation. His dedication to this cause for over 15 years earned him a CBE (Commander of the Order of the British Empire). Despite his often larger-than-life persona, the knighthood held deep personal significance, as he attended the ceremony with his parents and partner. With six Grammys, an Oscar, and a Golden Globe to his name, none of these accolades compare to the honor of being called “Sir Elton John.”
1. Jamie Lee Curtis
Jamie Lee Curtis boasts an impressive network of connections and a stellar career, renowned for her roles in the Halloween series and Freaky Friday, among others. Born into Hollywood royalty, her father, Tony Curtis, was a celebrated actor in the ’50s and ’60s, while her mother, Janet Leigh, gained fame for her role in Alfred Hitchcock’s iconic film Psycho.
In addition to her Hollywood lineage, Jamie Lee Curtis holds an official noble title. This stems from her marriage to Christopher Guest, who inherited the title of Baron upon his father’s passing in 1996. As a result, Curtis is not only Hollywood royalty but also an official baroness.
