Tony winner Cynthia Erivo, currently flying high in Wicked: For Good, the second half of the two-part adaptation of the Broadway musical, was named a Member of the Order of the British Empire in His Majesty The King's New Years Honours List for 2026.

The Color Purple star was awarded the MBE for services to Music and Drama.

Others receiving honors include The Wire's Idris Elba, awarded a Knighthood for services to young people; Christopher Dean and Jayne Christensen (Torvill), awarded a Knighthood and Damehood, respectively, for their services to Ice Skating and Voluntary Service; actor and comedian Meera Syal, awarded a Damehood for services to Literature, Drama, and Charity; composer Max Richter, awarded a CBE for his services to Music; Warwick Davis, recognized for services to Drama and Charity with an OBE; and author and television presenter Richard Osman, awarded an OBE for his services to literature and broadcasting.

Prime Minister Keir Starmer said in a statement, "This year’s Honours list celebrates the very best of Britain—people who put the common good ahead of themselves to strengthen communities and change lives. Their quiet dedication speaks to the decent, compassionate country we are proud to be. On behalf of the whole nation, thank you—and congratulations to everyone recognised today."

Erivo won the 2016 Tony Award for Best Performance by an Actress in a Leading Role in a Musical for her work as Celie in the Tony-winning revival of The Color Purple. She was also a producer for the 2023 Broadway debut of James Ijames' Fat Ham. Erivo earned Oscar nominations for her performances in the first half of the Wicked film and Harriet and for Best Achievement in Music Written for Motion Pictures (Original Song), also for Harriet. The acclaimed artist also hosted the 2025 Tony Awards.

For additional honorees, click here.