American actor, Kevin Spacey has been awarded an honorary knighthood by Her Majesty The Queen in her annual birthday honours list.
The actor – who is soon to step down from his decade-long tenure as artistic director at The Old Vic in London – said that he felt like “an adopted son,” after his honorary award for services to British theatre and international culture was announced. Spacey is perhaps best known for his portrayal as villainous politician, Frank Underwood in the critically acclaimed Netflix series, House of Cards. He also won an Oscar in 1999 for his performance in American Beauty.
Comedian Lenny Henry and Northern Irish singer Van Morrison have also been awarded knighthoods in this year’s honours list. Earlier this week, Henry told interviewers that he was “chuffed” to receive the prestigious accolade.
Eddie Redmayne, Michael Ball and Doctor Who show-runner Steven Moffat are among this year’s OBE recipients. Meanwhile, Benedict Cumberbatch, Chiwetel Ejiofor and Paddington Bear creator, Michael Bond have also been recognised and awarded respective CBEs for their contributions to the arts.
You can find the full list of birthday honours, here.
