Actor, James Nesbitt named in new year's Order of British Empire (OBE) Honours

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December 31, 2015 11:43 PM

Hollywood actors Idris Elba and James Nesbitt have been named among the stars that will be recognised in the 2016 Order of British Empire (OBE) New Year’s honours.

Hollywood actors Idris Elba and James Nesbitt have been named among the stars that will be recognised in the 2016 Order of British Empire (OBE) New Year’s honours.

43-year-old Elba is receiving an OBE for services to drama which he described the news as “beyond special”. He says it caps off an incredible year for his career.

“Awards and honours come in all shapes and sizes and all as significant as the other. But this is beyond special as it comes from Queen and country, and I couldn’t be more proud for receiving this right now,” he said.

On the other hand, Nesbitt is receiving his OBE not just for his acting work but also for services to Northern Ireland, after years of working with families affected by conflict in the country.

The 50-year-old Northern Ireland-born actor said: “I’ve been very blessed with my work and very blessed to come from Northern Ireland, and for those two things to be on the citation was really rather gratifying”.

Other stars to receive the Honours for the new year includes: Imelda Stanton, Sian Phillips, Damon Albarm, David Oyelowo, Martyn Lewis, Goldie, Beryl Vertue and Barbara Windsor.

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