Idris Elba, David Oyelowo, James Nesbitt make Queen’s New Year Honors list

LONDON, Jan. 1 (UPI) — Actors Idris Elba, David Oyelowo and James Nesbitt have made Queen Elizabeth II’s New Year Honors list.

The monarch also recognized actresses Barbara Windsor, Sian Phillips and Imelda Staunton, as well as Blur frontman Damon Albarn, for their contributions to the arts.

People magazine said the title Officer of the Most Excellent Order of the British Empire was bestowed upon Elba, Oyelowo, Nesbitt and Albam, while Windsor and Phillips were awarded damehoods.

Staunton was promoted from OBE to the rank of Commander of the Most Excellent Order of the British Empire.