Emmerdale icon and Grace writer among those on newly released Honours list

The annual King’s Birthday Honours were revealed today, celebrating many people across different fields – including some well-known faces from television and literature. This year’s list recognizes a beloved actor from the soap opera Emmerdale and the author of the popular Grace detective series.

Dame Helen Mirren, known for her role in MobLand, has received a prestigious honor – she’s become a Member of the Order of the Companions of Honour, recognizing her significant contributions to the world of drama.

Beloved authors Malorie Blackman, known for Noughts & Crosses, and Julia Donaldson, famous for The Scarecrow’s Wedding, have both been awarded the title of Dame. This honor recognizes their significant contributions to literature; Blackman is already an Officer of the Order of the British Empire (OBE), and Donaldson, a Commander of the Order of the British Empire (CBE).

I’m so thrilled to hear that Patrick Doyle, the incredibly talented composer behind the music for films like 2022’s Death on the Nile, is being honored with a CBE! It’s fantastic recognition for all he’s contributed to the world of film.

This year’s honors list includes OBEs for several well-known people in the entertainment world. Dexter Fletcher, the director and actor behind Rocketman, was recognized for his contributions to film and television, while author Peter James, known for his Grace series, was honored for his work in literature and charitable giving.

Janette Luca, ITV’s Director of Public Affairs, and musician/broadcaster Cerys Matthews have both been appointed Officers of the Order of the British Empire (OBE). Ms. Luca received the honor for her contributions to broadcasting and television, while Ms. Matthews – who previously held an MBE – was recognized for her service to music.

David Holmes, a writer and presenter who used to work as a stuntman, has been awarded an MBE. He suffered a life-changing spinal injury during rehearsals for a stunt on the set of ‘Harry Potter and the Deathly Hallows – Part 1’, leaving him permanently paralyzed from the chest down.

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In 2023, a documentary called “David Holmes: The Boy Who Lived” was released, detailing his accident and friendship with Daniel Radcliffe. He’s now received an MBE award in recognition of his contributions to film, media, and charitable work.

Lisa Riley, a well-known actress from Emmerdale, and TV presenter Anneka Rice have both been awarded MBEs. Lisa’s honor recognizes her contributions to acting and charitable work, while Anneka is being recognized for her broadcasting career and dedication to charity.

Authors

James HibbsDrama Writer

James Hibbs writes about TV dramas for TopMob, covering shows on streaming services and traditional channels. Before becoming a writer, he worked in public relations, first at a business-to-business agency and then at Fremantle, a major international TV production company. He has a bachelor’s degree in English and Theatre Studies, as well as a journalism diploma.

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2026-06-13 01:06