Jason LaVeris/FilmMagicYou won’t be able to call him “Sir,” but actor Kevin Spacey has been given an honorary British knighthood to mark Queen Elizabeth II’s “official birthday.”
The House of Cards star, who has been the artistic director of London’s Old Vic Theatre for ten years, received the honor for services to British theater and international culture, the BBC reports.
The honor is a sweet sendoff for the American actor, who will step down from his position in the fall. He told reporters he feels like an “adopted son” of England.
“I am honored and humbled by such recognition from the Queen,” said the Oscar-winner, who is only eligible for the title on an honorary basis because he is not British. “I must thank the British public for being so supportive of my efforts on behalf of the Old Vic.”
Earlier in the year, Spacey — who studied drama at Juilliard School in New York City — was presented with a Special Award by Dame Judi Dench at the Olivier Awards for his outstanding contribution to the theatre. He was previously invested as an honorary CBE for services to drama in 2010.
More than 1,100 people were recognized by the Queen for their achievements this year. Musician Van Morrison will receive a knighthood, Oscar winner Eddie Redmayne, 12 Years A Slave actor Chiwetel Ejiofor and Paddington Bear creator Michael Bond, will become CBEs, Commander of the Order of the British Empire.
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