King Charles III has unveiled his New Year Honours list for 2025, recognising a stellar array of talent from the worlds of entertainment and sport. Leading the recipients are acclaimed actor Idris Elba, who receives a knighthood, and legendary ice dance duo Jayne Torvill and Christopher Dean, who are made a Dame and Knight respectively.
Sporting Triumphs Celebrated
The honours powerfully acknowledge a landmark year for women's sport in England. Sarina Wiegman, the head coach of the England women's football team, receives an honorary damehood after masterminding the Lionesses' successful defence of their European Championship title in July. Key players from that victorious squad are also recognised, with captain Leah Williamson made a Commander of the Order of the British Empire (CBE). Teammates Alex Greenwood, Keira Walsh, Georgia Stanway, and Ella Toone are appointed MBEs.
Similarly, England's World Cup-winning women's rugby union team, the Red Roses, are strongly represented. Players Marlie Packer and Zoe Aldcroft become OBEs, as does coach John Mitchell. Further MBEs are awarded to teammates Ellie Kildunne, Sadia Kabeya, and Megan Jones following their triumph over Canada in the final this past September.
Entertainment Icons Honoured for Service
Dame Jayne Torvill, 68, and Sir Christopher Dean, 67, are recognised for their services to ice skating and to voluntary service. The pair, who famously won Olympic gold in Sarajevo in 1984, described the honour as "wonderful and humbling at the same time." Dame Jayne noted the timing felt "perfect" following their farewell tour earlier this year, which marked their retirement from performing together.
Sir Idris Elba, 53, is knighted for his services to young people, primarily through the work of his Elba Hope Foundation. The foundation focuses on community empowerment, education, and youth advocacy. Upon receiving the honour, Sir Idris stated he accepted it on behalf of the young people the foundation supports, emphasising the need for "sustained, practical support" to help them find alternatives to violence.
Reactions and Reflections
The honoured individuals have expressed profound gratitude. Sir Christopher Dean remarked that while fans had speculated about such an honour, he never assumed it would happen, noting many others across the country were equally deserving. In the sporting realm, coach John Mitchell was keen to share the credit, stating his OBE "reflects the work of the Red Roses World Cup-winning squad and the outstanding staff around them."
This year's list serves as a vibrant snapshot of national achievement, celebrating not only iconic careers in entertainment but also historic sporting success and dedicated charitable work, all under the auspices of the King's first New Year Honours of 2025.
