Sir Idris Elba: Knighthood Unlocked and Gaming Glory

Buckle up, gaming aficionados, because we're celebrating a legendary achievement in the world of entertainment! Idris Elba, the multi-talented actor who once graced our screens as the enigmatic Solomon Reed in Cyberpunk 2077: Phantom Liberty, has just leveled up in real life by being knighted in the New Year Honours! It's official now, folks – you can call him Sir Idris.

This Hackney hero, famed for electrifying performances as Stringer Bell in The Wire and DCI John Luther in Luther, has recently wowed audiences as the commanding British Prime Minister and the powerhouse President of the United States in the epic flicks Heads of State and A House of Dynamite. But, of course, we gamers hold a special place in our hearts for his role in the Cyberpunk universe.

Beyond the screens and controllers, Sir Idris has made an indelible mark through his Elba Hope Foundation, championing community empowerment and youth advocacy, with a focus on battling the scourge of knife crime. His words resonate: “I hope we can do more to draw attention to the importance of sustained, practical support for young people and to the responsibility we all share to help them find an alternative to violence.”

Sir Idris isn't the only one scoring achievements! Meera Syal, the comedic genius behind The Kumars at No 42, is now Dame Meera thanks to her stellar contributions to literature, drama, and charity. Composer Max Richter has been celebrated with a CBE for his musical mastery, and the ever-impressive Warwick Davis, star of Star Wars, is now an OBE honoree for his dramatic flair and charitable works.

Let's not forget the rest of the squad lighting up the honours list: Wicked's Cynthia Erivo scoops an MBE, and literary luminary Richard Osman, author of the bestselling Thursday Murder Club, clinches an OBE for his contributions to literature and broadcasting.

This year's honours have spotlighted over 1,157 champions from across the UK, shining a beacon on those heroes making a real-world impact in their communities. With such a star-studded lineup, it's a noteworthy year for dreamers and doers alike!

Photo credit: Daniele Venturelli/Getty Images for The Red Sea International Film Festival.