15 actors who were honored by the Royal Family

For years, the British Royal Family has upheld the long-lived tradition of recognizing the significant contributions of individuals in the fields of art, cinema, literature, and more. Actors who have excelled in leaving an indelible impression on the world of cinema and theatre through their passion and dedication, are bestowed the prestigious titles of Knight or Dame. The following is a list of 15 actors whose talents have been applauded and honored by the Royal Family.

1) Elizabeth Taylor

This Hollywood icon, with her dual British-American heritage and aptitude for social work, was an ingenious woman in the industry. Playing classics like Who's Afraid of Virginia Woolf?, Cleopatra, and Cat on a Hot Tin Roof, and has secured two Academy Awards during her career. But it was her philanthropy and activism that made her a true star in the eyes of people. Taylor was made a Dame Commander of the Order of the British Empire (DBE), by Queen Elizabeth II in 1999.

2) Helen Mirren

The English actress, Helen Mirren is widely acclaimed for her roles in theatre, television, and film. With a prominent career of about 60 years, she has delivered some of the most iconic performances in The Madness of King George, Prime Suspect, and that of Queen Elizabeth II in The Queen, which earned her the Academy Award. In 2003 she was appointed Dame Commander of the Order of the British Empire (DBE) by Prince Charles.

3) Judi Dench

One of the most loved and celebrated British actresses, Judi Dench was titled Dame Commander of the Order of the British Empire (DBE) in 1988 by Queen Elizabeth. From winning the Oscar for her performance in the play, Shakespeare in Love, to playing the role of M in the James Bond series, Judi Dench’s successful career is a testament to her commitment to the silver screen and theatre.

4) Anthony Hopkins

The star we all know as the appalling Hannibal Lecter from The Silence of the Lambs, Anthony Hopkins is indeed an acting genius. He was awarded the Knighthood in the year 1993 by Queen Elizabeth for his unforgettable service towards cinema. Other notable movies this Oscar-winning actor starred in are The Father, The Remains of the Day, Nixon, and many more.

5) Keira Knightley

Popularly known for her leading roles in Atonement, Pride and Prejudice, and The Pirates of the Caribbean: The Curse of the Black Pearl, Keira Knightley has a versatile catalog of movies. Apart from three Golden Globe awards, and nominations for Academy Awards and BAFTA, her versatile acting earned her a lot of fame amongst fans. She was appointed a Dame in 2018 by Prince Charles.

6) Benedict Cumberbatch

The star of Sherlock, Doctor Strange, The Imitation Game, and many more, Benedict Cumberbatch was honored with a Commander of the Order of the British Empire (CBE) by Queen Elizabeth in 2015. The Royal Family recognized his remarkable influence on the creative arts and charitable work. With his hypnotic on-screen presence and modest offscreen kindness, Cumberbatch has won the hearts of many.

7) Kate Winslet

Kate Winslet's versatile acting has made her a cherished treasure in Hollywood. From outshining as Rose in Titanic to dawning on more complex roles in Revolutionary Road, and Eternal Sunshine of the Spotless Mind, Kate Winslet was appointed a Commander of the Order of the British Empire (CBE) by Queen Elizabeth in 2012.

8) Emma Thompson

Appointed Dame Commander of the Order of the British Empire (DBE) in 2018 by Prince William, Emma Thompson is not just a notable actress but also a gifted writer. She has given some praiseworthy performances in Howards End, Sense and Sensibility, the Harry Potter series, and more. She has brought home several awards throughout her illustrious career, including a BAFTA, Golden Globe, and especially the Academy Award for both, acting and writing.

9) Maggie Smith

From the wizarding wonders of Hogwarts to the majestic realm of Downton Abbey, Maggie Smith has always been a fan favorite. For her striking performances in movies and theatre, she was appointed Dame Commander of the Order of the British Empire (DBE) by Queen Elizabeth II in 1990. Known for her diligence, gravitas, and charisma, Smith garnered admiration from audiences spanning generations.

10) Helena Bonham Carter

Helena Bonham Carter is globally renowned for her dynamic acting career. Be it the Red Queen in Alice in Wonderland, Bellatrix Lestrange in Harry Potter, or Marla in Fight Club, she has nailed each role she played. In 2012, the Royal Family lauded her contribution to drama by honoring her with the title Commander of the Order of the British Empire (CBE).

11) Angelina Jolie

The Hollywood legend and internationally eminent philanthropist garnered an honorary Damehood from the Royal Family in 2014. Besides her distinguished acting career, she is also a humble humanitarian, and this has earned her immense respect from people across the world. Her expertise in balancing a high-profile profession and impactful social work deserves all the admiration she gets.

12) Eddie Redmayne

Eddie Redmayne is celebrated for his Oscar-winning portrayal of Stephen Hawking in James Marsh’s The Theory of Everything. He soon became a crowd-pleaser with his undeniable charm and raw talent. He is also admired for his other significant performances in Fantastic Beasts, The Day of the Jackal, and The Danish Girl. In 2016, Queen Elizabeth awarded him with the title Officer of the Order of the British Empire (OBE).

13) Michael Caine

This English actor has been an enduring legend on the silver screen for over 5 decades. Known for his world-famous roles in classics like The Italian Job, Get Carter, The Prestige, and The Dark Knight trilogy, Sir Michael Caine has greatly influenced British cinema. He was presented with the title of Knighthood in 2000 by the Royal Family as a tribute to his distinguished acting career.

14) Jim Carter

Carter’s acting journey has been dynamic, but we most certainly know him as the butler, Mr. Carson in Downton Abbey. His other noteworthy roles are in Shakespeare in Love, The Madness of King George, and the fantastical Ella Enchanted. In 2019, he received an OBE (Order of the British Empire) from Prince Charles for his unforgettable hard work in the field of drama.

15) Naomie Harris

Naomie Harris, known for her performance in The Pirates of the Caribbean series and James Bond movies earned her global recognition but it was her Oscar-nominated acting in Moonlight that brought her talent into the limelight. Naomie Harris was appointed an Officer of the Order of the British Empire (OBE) by Queen Elizabeth in 2017.