British actor Idris Elba poses with his wife Sabrina Dhowre Elba and his medal after being appointed as a Knight Bachelor (Knighthood) for services to young people at an investiture ceremony at Windsor Castle on June 2, 2026.
Image: Andrew Matthews / POOL / AFP
British actor Idris Elba has been appointed as a Knight Bachelor (Knighthood) for services to young people at an investiture ceremony.
Elba now Sir Idris founded the Elba Hope Foundation in 2022 to support community empowerment, education, youth advocacy and sustainable development.
The 53-year-old actor used a grant from the King's Trust, previously called the Prince's Trust to attend the National Youth Music Theatre when he was 18.
It was announced last year that the "Luther" star will team up with the King to create a documentary marking 50 years since Charles founded the charity, due to air on Netflix this autumn.
Elba celebrated the moment on Instagram by posting a video of himself with his new Arsenal football jersey written Sir Idris.
The actor attended the ceremony with his wife, Sabrina Dhowre Elba at Windsor Castle on June 2, 2026.
The King has presented honours to 68 people, including actress and comedian Dame Meera Syal, known for "The Kumars At No 42", who was recognised for services to literature, drama and charity, Olympic ice skating champions Christopher Torvill and Jayne Dean, as well as Chuckle Brother Paul Elliott.
93-year-old Betty Brown, thought to be the oldest surviving victim of the Post Office Horizon IT scandal, was also honoured.
Mrs Brown ran a Post Office in County Durham with her late husband, Oswall, from 1985 to 2003; she estimates they lost around £100,000 of their own money to cover non-existent shortfalls.
On Instagram, the Royal Family congratulated the recipients and shared pictures of the special moment.
"Congratulations to everyone who received honours at today’s Investiture ceremonies, hosted by The King at Windsor Castle."