In a prestigious announcement on December 31, King Charles III unveiled the 2025 New Year Honors list, recognizing over 1,200 individuals from diverse backgrounds for their remarkable contributions to British society.
The list includes renowned personalities from the arts, sports, public service, and mental health advocacy, underscoring the impact of their dedication and achievements.
Among the notable names receiving honors are Oscar nominee Carey Mulligan, former England soccer team manager Gareth Southgate, and the Mayor of London, Sadiq Khan.
These individuals are being celebrated for their significant influence and service in their respective fields.
Oscar-nominated actress Carey Mulligan, known for her roles in films like An Education (2009) and Promising Young Woman (2021), has been named a Commander of the Order of the British Empire (CBE) for her outstanding services to drama.
The 39-year-old actress, who is also nominated for Best Actress at the 2024 Oscars for her role in Maestro, shares this honor with acclaimed actress Sarah Lancashire. Lancashire, 60, celebrated for her work in Julia and Black Doves, expressed her surprise and gratitude, calling the recognition an “unexpected delight.”
Mulligan’s career has been marked by critical acclaim and multiple Oscar nominations, positioning her as one of the leading talents in contemporary cinema.
Gareth Southgate, former manager of the England national football team, has been awarded a knighthood in recognition of his leadership in soccer. Southgate’s tenure as manager brought the national team to the finals of Euro 2020 and a fourth-place finish in the 2018 World Cup, further solidifying his legacy in English football.
Sadiq Khan, the Mayor of London, also received a knighthood for his service to the capital. Khan, who has led London since 2016, reflected on his journey from growing up on a council estate in South London to becoming the city’s mayor.
He expressed that it was an “honor of my life” to serve London, vowing to continue striving for a fairer, safer, and more prosperous future for all communities within the city.
Actor and comedian Stephen Fry was also knighted, honored for his influential work in raising awareness about mental health. Fry, known for his candid discussions of his own struggles with mental health, has played a crucial role in destigmatizing mental illness through his public platform.
In a heartfelt statement, Fry reflected on his tumultuous childhood and the surprise of receiving such recognition, acknowledging how far he has come from his past challenges.
Prime Minister Keir Starmer praised the list as a celebration of “unsung heroes” who dedicate themselves daily to making extraordinary contributions to their communities.
He highlighted that these individuals represent the core values of service, which are central to the government’s mission. Starmer’s comments emphasize the importance of recognizing those who work tirelessly to improve the lives of others, often without the recognition they deserve.
The 2025 New Year Honors list serves as a testament to the individuals who have shaped British society, whether through their artistic achievements, sporting excellence, or commitment to public service.
As King Charles III continues this tradition of recognizing exceptional individuals, it remains a powerful reminder of the impact that dedication and service can have on the nation.
