Who Has An MBE?
This year has seen many new notable people being made MBEs, including Hollywood star Emilia Clarke and beloved baker Paul Hollywood. In living memory, our brightest stars, like Adele, have also become MBEs, recognised for their contributions to society.
In this article, we share a list of both newly appointed MBEs and some honourable mentions for those who have held the title for a while, all awarded for a diverse range of achievements.
What is an MBE?
MBE stands for Member of the Order of the British Empire. The award is an incredibly prestigious accolade, reserved for those who have made a great and positive impact in their line of work. Being recognised with this award can be beneficial in raising awareness for important causes, attracting new business and for one’s personal sense of achievement.
For services to people
Emilia Clarke
Most known for her role as Daenerys in the hit series Game of Thrones, Emilia Clarke received the accolade this year in honour of her services to people with brain injuries, alongside her mother Jenny.
After experiencing two brain haemorrhages, the first in 2011 and the second in 2013, Emilia Clarke wanted to create a charity to advocate for change. Subsequently, the mother daughter pair co-founded SameYou in 2019, which aims to provide better mental health services for brain injury survivors.
For services to music
Adele
London-born singer-songwriter Adele was appointed as an MBE in 2013 for her outstanding contributions to music. Not only has her music touched the hearts of millions around the world, selling over 120 million records, she even has an Oscar for Best Song in Skyfall.
The Beatles
Paul McCartney and Ringo Starr have both been awarded a Knighthood since, but, in 1965, all four members of The Beatles were recognised as MBEs by Her Majesty the Queen. This appointment at the time was incredibly controversial. Many people believed that a ‘popular music’ group shouldn’t be awarded this title because it belittled its status and prestige. This was despite The Beatles’ monumental and longstanding success globally. Regardless, they were still honoured with the accolade by Her Majesty.
For services to drama
James Martin
An Irish Goodbye, starring James Martin, garnered many awards, including a Bafta, an Oscar and IFTA all for the Best Short Film in 2023. As a result, he has become the first person with Down’s Syndrome to win all three awards in one year, and his subsequent MBE is to recognise this. These incredible achievements have encouraged Martin to want to continue to inspire people with learning difficulties through improving representation in the media.
For services to football
Harry Kane
In 2019, England captain and Tottenham striker Harry Kane was awarded an MBE for his services to football during the semi-final in the World Cup of 2018, as well as winning the sought-after golden boot. Despite not making it to the final, Harry Kane was awarded for his efforts and bringing the country together in the process.
Lauren Hemp and Mary Earps
These Lionesses assisted England towards becoming runners up at the World Cup. Striker Hemp and goalkeeper Earps were rewarded for their valiant efforts with an MBE. Earps has also been named BBC Sports Personality of the Year, inspiring countless girls and women to follow their dreams.
For services to baking and broadcasting
Paul Hollywood
Judge for the national treasure of a TV show that is The Great British Bake Off since it first aired in 2010, Paul Hollywood has now been recognised for his accomplishments with an MBE. For services to baking and broadcasting, Hollywood’s contributions to one of the most famous and loved TV shows of all time have been integral to making it the success it is today. He was reportedly ‘over the moon’ to be honoured in this way.
Other notable recipients
Recognised for her charity campaigning Stop Taxing Periods, which aims to get rid of the ‘tampon tax’ on menstrual products, Laura Coryton has also been awarded with an MBE. People who menstruate no longer have to pay VAT on period pants anymore, indicating her campaigning is encouraging change.
For 80 years, 97-year-old Jill Gladwell has been a Poppy Appeal collector, which provides lifelong support to every generation of the Armed Forces. This year she has been acknowledged for her achievement by being presented with an MBE.
Support from Awards Intelligence
Anyone can be nominated to receive an MBE. With support from Awards Intelligence, you can take the stress out of applying for such prestigious honours. Get in touch with us to start the exciting process towards being nominated today.