Eddie Redmayne and Benedict Cumberbatch will soon have another award each to add to their growing collection after being listed in the Queen's Birthday Honours. The British actors, who came head to head throughout awards season, have both been recognised for their services to drama.
Oscar-winning Eddie is set to continue his incredible year with an OBE, while Benedict has been named a CBE. Although they have yet to make an official comment on the honour, both actors will likely be delighted to add yet another accolade to their vast collection of awards.
© Photo: Getty ImagesEddie Redmayne and Benedict Cumberbatch have been named in the Queen's birthday honours
Joining the pair on the list is Twelve Years a Slave actor Chiwetel Ejiofor, who has been given a CBE, and American actor Kevin Spacey. The 55-year-old has been awarded an honorary knighthood for his services to British theatre and International Culture, leaving him feeling like "an adopted son".
"I am honoured and humbled by such recognition from the Queen. I must thank the British public for being so supportive of my efforts on behalf of the Old Vic. I feel like an adopted son," Kevin said.
© Photo: Getty ImagesKevin Spacey has been awarded an honorary knighthood
The actors are among 1,163 people recognised by the Queen for their achievements, with Lenny Henry among the famous faces to be granted a knighthood.
The comedian said learning the news gave him "a lovely feeling" and was "like being filled with lemonade".
Critcally-acclaimed singer and songwriter Van Morrison has also been given a knighthood for his services to music and tourism in Northern Ireland, the inspiration for many of his hit songs.
© Photo: Getty ImagesLenny Henry has been given a knighthood
Sports stars made up five percent of the recipients, with former England footballer Frank Lampard named an OBE, rugby star Jonny Wilkinson awarded a CBE for his dedication to rugby union, and England women's football captain Casey Stoney named an MBE.
Former Welsh rugby star Gareth Edwards has also been awarded a knighthood for his long service to the game.
