It is a high honor A knighthood or damehood from the royal family is the most prestigious honour a British citizen can receive.
Queen Elizabeth IIHer children and grandchildren are allowed to present awards to outstanding citizens of the Commonwealth. Per the official country’s website, a knight or dame title is awarded to individuals who have “a major contribution in any activity, usually at a national level.” Such accomplishments are often seen as “inspirational and significant, requiring commitment over a long period of time.”
Former Great British Bake Off Judge Mary Berry received a damehood in October 2021 via the reigning monarch’s eldest children, Prince CharlesAnd Princess Anne.
“🍰 Arise Dame Mary Berry! Congratulations to the food writer, TV presenter and former judge on @britishbakeoff who received her Damehood for services to culinary arts from The Prince of Wales today,” the royal family announced via their official Instagram page at the time. “🎖 The Prince of Wales and The Princess Royal presented honors recipients from all walks of life with their insignia during the two Investitures which were held at Windsor Castle today.”
The award was given to the cookbook author for her broadcasting and culinary career of 50 years, as well her charity work.
“I’m extremely proud and honored,” she told the BBC of the award. “I just wish my parents were here — they’re looking down and my children are quite excited. Because everyone has to cook every day, my goal is to pass the knowledge that I love. Whether it’s a student or whatever it is, you’ve got to feed yourself so why not learn to do it well and enjoy it.”
The TV personality, who was previously a baker alongside Prince WilliamAndDuchess Kate for her Berry Royal Christmas special in December 2019, joined an accomplished group of peers who’ve earned similar honors, including the likes of Emma Thompson, Julie AndrewsAnd Mick Jagger.
The Prince of Wales also bestowed the famed honor to the “Satisfaction” crooner in December 2003.
“It was all rather wonderfully formal,” Jagger told Rolling Stone Following The ceremony.
For her part the Late Night In November 2018, the Duke and Duchess of Cambridge knighted actress for her contributions to acting and drama.
“I love Prince William,” she gushed to reporters at the time. “I’ve known him since he was little, and we just sniggered at each other. I said, ‘I can’t kiss you, can I?’ And he said, ‘No don’t!’”
She continued, “If you’re first up, you have to be more formal on such an occasion, but he’s looking wonderful and doing so well. He said, ‘This day isn’t about me, it’s about you.’”
Scroll down to see the list of celebrities who have been knighted or crowned by members from the royal family.
