The New Year Honours list for 2024 has unveiled a constellation of stars from the entertainment industry, acknowledging their outstanding contributions to various fields. Game of Thrones star Emilia Clarke, renowned baker Paul Hollywood, and Glastonbury founder Michael Eavis are among the luminaries recognized for their achievements.
Dame Shirley Bassey, the iconic singer with over 135 million records sold, has been appointed a Companion of Honour for her remarkable services to music. This prestigious title limits its membership to 65 individuals at any given time, making Bassey the 64th living member. Born in Tiger Bay, Cardiff, Bassey expressed deep emotion and humility, stating, “My heart is full of emotion, and I am truly humbled.”
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Director and producer Ridley Scott, celebrated for cinematic masterpieces such as Gladiator, Alien, and Napoleon, has been elevated to a Knight Grand Cross, upgrading his previous knighthood. Author Jilly Cooper has been honored with the title of dame, a recognition that left her "absolutely and incredibly bowled over."
Singer Leona Lewis has been appointed an Officer of the Order of the British Empire (OBE), while author Kate Mosse is made a Commander of the British Empire (CBE). Mosse, known for her literary contributions and co-founding the Women’s Prize for Fiction, sees this recognition as an acknowledgment of the importance of women supporting each other.
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In a touching family tribute, actor Emilia Clarke and her mother Jenny have been appointed Members of the Order of the British Empire (MBE). Both are co-founders of SameYou, a brain injury recovery charity established after Clarke survived two brain haemorrhages. Clarke described the honor as "remarkable" and highlighted the joy of seeing her mother, who underwent surgery to remove a brain aneurysm, recognized for her work.
The New Year Honours list extends its recognition to several other notable figures in the showbiz realm. Radio presenter Tony Blackburn has been made an OBE, and fellow DJ Steve Wright, sports broadcasters Jeff Stelling and Hazel Irvine, and The Great British Bake Off judge Paul Hollywood are appointed MBEs.
Glastonbury founder Michael Eavis, renowned for his contributions to music and charity, is knighted, and he humorously anticipates that Prince William might conduct the investiture ceremony, adding, “He’s made a few mentions of wanting to come to the festival, so I’ll probably take a couple of tickets in my pocket!”
Prime Minister Rishi Sunak commended the honorees, stating, “The new year’s honours list recognizes the exceptional achievements of people across the country and those who have shown the highest commitment to selflessness and compassion. To all honourees, you are the pride of this country and an inspiration to us all.”
