Reports circulating about royal honours this year have sparked confusion. One well-known guitarist, Brian May, is not the king, nor has he ever held the title of King of England. The Crown does not confer royal status on individuals through music credentials. In reality, the honours system operates under the auspices of the monarchy and government, recognizing achievements across public service, the arts, science, sport, and charitable work.
During the reign of Charles III, a significant ceremony marked by the presentation of state awards took place. In addition to the discussion around May, the artist Grayson Perry was also knighted, joining a diverse group of recipients. The honours list also highlighted notable figures such as actor Stephen Graham and actress Virginia McKenna, along with Leah Williamson, captain of the England women’s soccer team, who received distinctions in varying levels of the Order of the British Empire. These recognitions reflect a broad spectrum of contributions to national life, from performance to leadership and community service.
Across the ceremony, around 1.1 thousand individuals were honoured, with many recognized for their contributions as diplomats, politicians, artists, and athletes. The list included remarkable stories of public service, such as Peter Offord Davies, a dedicated volunteer who received an award for his educational work at a local primary school, and Dara McAnulty, a young advocate from Northern Ireland whose efforts to raise awareness about autism have touched many lives. Their inclusion illustrates the diversity of achievements that the honours system seeks to celebrate, spanning age, background, and fields of impact.
Within this context, there have been broader conversations about the symbols and institutions that appear in the public discourse surrounding royal ceremonies. While coin designs and historical heraldry may evoke a sense of lineage and tradition, the ongoing role of the honours process remains focused on recognizing lived impact and service rather than titles alone. This ceremony exemplifies a continuing tradition in which the nation acknowledges contributions that strengthen communities and national life, while acknowledging that leadership, artistry, and charity can be recognized across multiple generations.