Star Wars composer John Williams and former Disney CEO Bob Iger are the last honorary knights approved by Her Late Majesty Queen Elizabeth II.
Ninety-one-year-old Williams was cited for his contributions to the film music industry. As for Iger, he was acknowledged for his contribution to UK and US relations.
Williams is considered one of the world’s greatest film composers and has won multiple awards throughout his career, including an impressive five Academy Awards. Along with Star Wars, Williams’ other famous works include Jaws, E.T., and Harry Potter.
As for Iger, the 71-year-old served as the CEO of the Walt Disney Company from 2005 to 2020. He also held roles as the chairman of the board and executive chairman. Major milestones for the company during Iger’s time as CEO include the multi-billion dollar acquisition of Pixar. Upon the honour, Iger said in a statement he remembered The Queen and her extraordinary life and service.
“It is truly special and one of the great honours of my life to have the honorary Knight of the British Empire conferred on me by her before she passed.
“Our two nations share a strong bond, which I have seen up close over many years through my deep personal and professional connections to the United Kingdom. I have great affection for the people of the UK and have always appreciated and been inspired by their extraordinary contributions, particularly in the creative arts.”
The recently-published honours list also includes chef and TV presenter Ken Hom. Hom was made an honorary CBE by Her Late Majesty.
The Foreign Office is responsible for the Diplomatic Service and Overseas List. This means the office is in charge of recognising overseas services or service in the UK that has a significant international component.
Now, King Charles III is the one to informally approve the list and letters sent to each nominee. Once a nominee accepts the proposed honour, the list becomes formally approved.
