Benedict Cumberbatch has legions of fans around the world but his number one supporter will always be his wife Sophie Hunter. The British actor was accompanied by the beautiful theatre director to an investiture ceremony on Tuesday morning, where Benedict received his CBE.
The Sherlock star was appointed a Commander of the Order of the British Empire in June, in the Queen's Birthday Honours List.
Arriving at Buckingham Palace in a bespoke morning suit and silver tie, Benedict looked as proud as punch to receive the honour. He was recognised for his services to charity and the performing arts – something that he said was a "unique occasion".
"To meet her and be honoured by her was extraordinary," said Benedict Cumberbatch
During the ceremony Benedict shook hands with Her Majesty and chatted briefly to the 89-year-old royal. Once outside the Harrow-educated star was joined by his wife as photographers snapped away.
Sophie, who gave birth to the couple's baby boy Christopher in June, was the epitome of elegance in a brocade lavender dress and navy hat.
"It's fantastic, it's quite nerve-wracking, there is nothing really that prepares you for it," Benedict told the BBC after the ceremony. "It's a unique occasion and I feel very privileged to be here and flattered to be recognised in this way."
Of his encounter with the Queen, Benedict added: "It was wonderful, it was the first time I've ever met her and to meet her and be honoured by her was extraordinary."
"It's fantastic, it's quite nerve-wracking," said the actor, who was appointed a CBE
It's been a year of highs for the 39-year-old actor. He married his gorgeous wife Sophie in February – around the same time he was nominated for an Oscar for his performance in The Imitation Game. Four months later he welcomed his first child.
Benedict has also proven his stage credentials with a sell-out run of Hamlet at the Barbican, which kicked off in August and saw fans flocking to the theatre for autographs and pictures.
The philanthropist also used his time to ask the audience for donations towards the refugee crisis; at the end of the run, theatre-goers had contributed more than £150,000 to Save the Children.