Category Entertainment News

He is now Sir David Beckham and feels “humbled” by new honour but sadly his life is not completely perfect

Emotional former England football captain David Beckham said it was a “humbling honour” after being knighted in the King’s Birthday Honours.

Sir David, who was made an OBE in 2003 and has been in the running for a knighthood for more than a decade, said in a statement to the Mirror: “Growing up in East London with parents and grandparents who were so patriotic and proud to be British I never could have imagined I would receive such a truly humbling honour. To have played for and captained my country was the greatest privilege of my career and literally a boyhood dream come true. Off the pitch I have been fortunate to have the opportunity to represent Britain around the world and work with incredible organisations that are supporting communities in need and inspiring the next generation.

“I’m so lucky to be able to do the work that I do and I’m grateful to be recognised for work that gives me so much fulfilment. It will take a little while for the news to sink in but I’m immensely proud and it’s such an emotional moment for me to share with my family.”

The mention of his family is a particularly poignant one at the moment. Beckham’s son Brooklyn has not been speaking to him or wife Victoria for some months. Messages of congratulations will follow from family and friends for Beckham, but it remains to be seen if there will be one from the son he calls ‘Buster’.

Beckham had been on the verge of receiving a knighthood in the 2014 New Year’s Honours list but HM Revenue and Customs placed a red flag on his nomination due to his involvement in an alleged tax avoidance scheme, according to previous reports.

In 2021 it was reported that his finances had been cleared and he was eligible for a knighthood. The day before Sir David was given the honour, he was seen chatting with the King at a St James’s Palace ceremony for the monarch’s foundation, of which the retired footballer is an ambassador.

He has always be a huge supporter of the royal family and there was no finer example of this as when in September 2022 he queued for 12 hours to see Elizabeth II lying in state and described it as “special to be here”.

He has been made a knight for his services to sport and to charity, having partnered with Unicef and campaigned with Malaria No More, a charity working to eradicate the disease. Sir David, who recently celebrated his 50th birthday, was presented with an OBE by the Queen in 2003 for his services to football.

In 2022 he recalled: “To receive my OBE, I took my grandparents with me – who were the ones that really brought me up to be a huge royalist and a fan of the Royal Family – and obviously I had my wife there as well.

“To step up, to get my honour – but then also Her Majesty, to ask questions, to talk. I was so lucky that I was able to have a few moments like that in my life, to be around Her Majesty.

“Because we can all see with the love that has been shown how special she is and how special she was and the legacy that she leaves behind. It’s a sad day, but it’s a day for us to remember the incredible legacy that she’s left.

“Every time that we stood there when we wore those Three Lion shirts and I had my armband and we sang God Save The Queen, that was something that meant so much to us.

“Every time that we did it, it was something special.” Beckham will not have much time to celebrate this weekend as sources close to the star confirmed he would be watching his team Inter Miami play the opening game of the Club World Cup. But at some point he will presumably allow himself a moment to think how far he has come.

Born in Leytonstone, east London, Beckham had a trial at local team Leyton Orient and also attended Tottenham’s school of excellence – but his father Ted, a staunch Manchester United fan, remained determined he would go on to play at Old Trafford.

After coming through the club’s academy as part of the famed ‘Class of 92’, Beckham announced himself to the Premier League on the opening day of the 1996-97 season with a memorable goal from the halfway line against Wimbledon.

While there were plenty of doubters as to what he could go on to achieve, Beckham answered them and more – claiming six Premier League titles and two FA Cups with Sir Alex Ferguson’s all-conquering side as well as a dramatic 1999 Champions League final victory over Bayern Munich at the Nou Camp.

International success, however, proved elusive for Beckham as England’s so-called ‘golden generation’ repeatedly came up short. In a Netflix documentary series, released during October 2023, Beckham revealed he still cannot forgive himself for the abuse his family suffered amid the fallout from his red card at the 1998 World Cup for kicking the back of Diego Simeone’s leg during the last-16 clash against Argentina in Saint-Etienne – which left him a “mess”.

By the time Beckham retired at 38, he was already thinking about life after football, and he became a co-owner of the Inter Miami franchise. The club entered Major League Soccer for the 2020 campaign and now boasts Lionel Messi on the team sheet.

A multi-million-pound lifetime deal with Adidas, signed in 2003, had secured his financial future away from the game. Other lucrative, high-profile endorsements down the years have ranged from fashion designers Calvin Klein, Armani and Hugo Boss to tech giants Samsung, Haig Club whisky and Stella Artois as well as kitchen appliance manufacturer Ninja. Beckham, who was made an OBE for services to football in 2003, has long been involved with children’s charity UNICEF, and is a co-owner of film production company Studio 99.

In 2024, Beckham was appointed Ambassador for The King’s Foundation which works globally to create sustainable communities through placemaking projects and also transform lives through practical education programmes. Following the news, Philip Goodwin, UNICEF UK’s Chief Executive, said of their Goodwill Ambassador: “We’re so thrilled that our UNICEF Goodwill Ambassador, David Beckham, has been awarded a knighthood in the King’s Birthday Honours.

“David Beckham has done an incredible amount to advocate for children’s rights over the last 20 years. He became a Goodwill Ambassador in 2005 and launched 7: The David Beckham UNICEF Fund in 2015 – with the goal of helping children around the world, especially girls, break down barriers including bullying, violence, child marriage and missed education. He’s travelled extensively to see UNICEF’s work and used his profile to raise awareness, as well as support our flagship fundraising campaign Soccer Aid for UNICEF and launch global fundraising appeals. We are grateful for all of his support that has done a huge amount to amplify the voices of children around the world.”

EXCLUSIVE: David Beckham has become a Sir, as it has been announced in the King’s Birthday Honours List that he is set to receive a knighthood, which marks a string of changes for his family

All rise for Sir David Beckham! After days of excited speculation around David, 50, being awarded a knighthood, the news has finally been announced following the official release of the King’s Birthday Honours List.

Sir David has been recognised on the King’s Birthday Honours List, released this evening, which means a number of big changes for Goldenballs and his clan, including his former pop star turned fashion designer wife. Gone are the days Victoria will be nicknamed Posh, and she really has lived up to the moniker as Victoria, who received an OBE in 2017, also receives a new title with David’s honour, and she will now be known as Lady Victoria Beckham.

But, that’s not the only change the Beckhams – who are currently facing a turbulent time amid their fallout with eldest son Brooklyn and wife Nicola – are set to undergo as Royal commentator and former editor of The International Who’s Who, Richard Fitzwilliams, exclusively explains to the Mirror what Sir David’s new knighthood will mean for himself and his family– and if he can use the titles right away, or if he has to wait until he kneels in front of the King who will knight him with a sword…

David Beckham’s knighthood – his and Victoria’s new titles

Richard explains: “Just after his 50th birthday, David Beckham can celebrate his knighthood, which he can use as soon as the King’s Birthday Honours list is officially announced later tonight.

“This means his wife Victoria, who already has an OBE in her own right, becomes Lady Beckham. She was a member of the Spice Girls, one of the most successful girl bands ever and is a talented designer.”

Will David and Victoria’s children receive new titles, too?

Each of the Beckham children are also famous, having grown up in front of the gaze of millions of fans. Although they have earned their own status’ within the world of showbiz, Brooklyn, Romeo, Cruz and Harper Beckham won’t get any royal recognition due to their dad’s new title.

Richard tells us: “A knighthood is not hereditary, so there will be no direct benefit for his children, but they will or should be proud of him nonetheless.”

What does David’s knighthood mean for his career?

David Beckham’s football career, dashing good looks and celebrity marriage to Spice Girl Victoria Beckham, sorry Lady Beckham, has earned him worldwide celebrity status which has stood the test of time.

But, his knighthood will bring a whole new era in his career as Richard explains: “It is not just that he joins a unique band of fifteen knights who have been honoured for their services to football plus the footballing legend Pele, who has received an honorary knighthood. These include Sir Alex Ferguson, his mentor at Manchester United before they fell out, this will give David particular satisfaction, although they have since reportedly made up.

“We live in an egalitarian age but David Beckham is a phenomenon with a profile that is unique. Owing to the saga of the leaked emails in 2017, we know how keen he was to have a knighthood. However, this is not the point.

“He is a phenomenon who has also used his fame for charitable purposes, this especially involves his invaluable and high profile work for UNICEF. Beckham has backed Britain whenever he can and his role in bringing the Olympics to London was invaluable.

“Usually, a knighthood can mean increased respect and trust and also assist in expanding an individuals profile and opening new doors to show off their talent. Beckham defies categorisation, it would be impossible to be better known.”

As well as catapulting David’s career, it also puts to bed any past scandals – including those sweary leaked emails and the claims he had legally avoided tax.

Royal expert Richard continues: “This also, beginning with the knighthood for Sir Gareth Southgate, who was also allegedly involved in a tax avoidance scheme , closes the door on this issue. It was probably the main reason why it took so long for him to be honoured. The length of time reflected badly on the system as it is, on occasion, too slow to honour deserving individuals. In this case it was far too slow.

“However it will not be forgotten that David is ardently patriotic. He queued for about twelve hours to pass Queen Elizabeth’s coffin during the lying in state. He is also an ambassador for the King’s Foundation.

“The media circus around the Beckhams is beside the point. At last he has the recognition he, as a former England captain with 115 caps for England and a global profile, deserves.

“When he and Victoria celebrate they will have the satisfaction of knowing that the vast majority of Britons will be pleased that, finally, he is receiving the knighthood he so richly deserves.”

What privileges will Sir David get as a knight?

With the prestigious title comes a string of VIP privileges only afforded to those who receive a knighthood.

Royal expert Richard Fitzwilliams tells us: “The Chapel of Knights Bachelor is in St Paul’s Cathedral and he would be entitled to request the use of the Chapel for weddings, baptisms and memorial services.

“As a knight he is also entitled to apply for a coat of arms – perhaps golden balls will feature!”

Meanwhile, like every person who has received a knighthood, Sir David will be treated to an official ceremony. The ceremony, which often happens at Buckingham Palace, will see David kneel in front of a monarch – which can be either the King or another member of the Royal Family such as Princess Anne or Prince William – who will then touch the recipient’s shoulder with a sword.

EastEnders star Jamie Borthwick recently apologised for using a disabled slur. It has been reported his job at the soap is at risk over the scandal

EastEnders star Jamie Borthwick’s job at the long-running soap is reportedly at risk after he used a derogatory term about disabled people. The 30-year-old actor, who has appeared on EastEnders since 2006, in which he plays Jay Brown, reportedly used offensive language in a video that was allegedly shared with friends.

It was reported that the star was recorded using a derogatory word to describe locals in Blackpool, where BBC show Strictly Come Dancing filmed a glitzy live episode from the Blackpool Tower Ballroom. The word he used is a derogatory term regarded as a disabled slur. The star sparked condemnation from the disability charity Scope and a local politician in Blackpool.

It is reported that footage was made of Jamie using the word, which was then sent to one of his friends. He has since issued a grovelling apology for using the offensive slur.

READ MORE: Disney+ drops to £1.99 in rare deal Netflix and Amazon can’t beat

And now, it’s been said his apology might not be enough to end the scandal. An insider claimed how his character hasn’t been part of a ‘central role in the show for a while’.

“And with a new boss in Ben Wadey who only recently took the helm and with the scandal taking place so soon into his tenure feeling is that Jamie’s place on the show could be at serious risk,” the source claimed to The Sun.

He recently issued a grovelling apology which had been shared by The Sun on Sunday, stating: “I want to apologise sincerely and wholeheartedly for the words I used in the video showing my reaction to making it through Blackpool week on Strictly.

“I am deeply sorry for any offence and upset my words and actions have caused. It is no excuse, but I did not fully understand the derogatory term I used and its meaning. That is on me completely.

“Now I am aware, I am deeply embarrassed to have used the term and directed it in the way I did. It was wrong.” He went on to issue an apology to the people of Blackpool and reiterate his regret over his words.

After the publication claimed that he was suspended from EastEnders, a BBC spokesperson told The Mirror: “This language is entirely unacceptable and in no way reflects the values or standards we hold and expect at the BBC.

“We have robust processes in place for this.”

Last year, Jamie appeared on Strictly where he was paired with professional dancer Michelle Tsiakkas. They featured alongside Go Compare opera singer Wynne Evans, 53, who sparked scandal over his actions on the show.

The Mirror have reached out to the BBC and Jamie’s representatives for comment.

Follow Mirror Celebs on TikTok, Snapchat, Instagram, Twitter, Facebook, YouTube and Threads.

READ MORE: Save £250 on a giant Tuscan olive tree that will transform any patio into a Mediterranean haven

Caitlyn Jenner has been left stranded in Israel amid the ongoing conflict with Iran. She had been in Israel for Tel Aviv’s Pride Parade, which was called off today due to ongoing concerns following missile strikes from Iran. Taking to X, formerly known as Twitter, the decathlon icon shared a picture taken at what appears to be her hotel – the image saw dozens of Iranian missiles flying overhead, with smoke rising from the ground.

“‘Quiet’ night in Tel Aviv. Pray for us all. We will prevail. I am happy to stand with Israel today, now more than ever,” she said. The Olympian told a local TV network that she had been in touch with her family, who are in California. Caitlyn said: “I spoke with my daughter Kylie, and she urged me to stay safe. I reassured her.” She went on to add: “Don’t worry, I’ll keep myself safe, and they’ll take care of me.”

On Thursday, the reality star visited Jerusalem’s Western Wall and shared her visit on social media. She said in the caption: “My heart is here, with the beautiful people, in Israel.”

Five people have since been injured after Iran fired missiles into Tel Aviv, according to medics. Magen David Adom, Israel’s national emergency medical service, said one person was treated for moderate injuries while four others suffered minor injuries from shrapnel.

Over the past 24 hours, tensions have been escalating in the Middle East after the Israeli military said it had completed a widespread attack on air defences in western Iran. But while Israelis have been cleared to leave air raid shelters, they have been warned to stay close in case of further attacks.

Iran’s Supreme Leader, Ali Khamenei has claimed that Israel has initiated a war and that “the Iranian nation must be guaranteed that our response will not be half-measured.” He added that Iran will “inflict heavy blows” on Israel. Less than 100 ballistic missiles have been fired into Israel by Iran this evening.

Effie Defrin said that most were intercepted. He said: “There are a limited number of impacts on buildings, some were caused by interception fragments.”

A spokesperson said this morning that it had destroyed dozens of radar installations and surface-to-air missile launchers. Israel had previously carried out “preemptive strikes” on Iran in the early hours of Friday. wth Israeli officials later declaring a state of emergency ahead of their retaliation.

Meanwhile, British Prime Minister, Sir Keir Starmer, said the ongoing strikes were “concerning” and urged “all parties to step back and reduce tensions urgently”, adding that “now is the time for restraint, calm and a return to diplomacy”.

Foreign Secretary David Lammy said he was “concerned” to learn of the Israeli strikes which targeted the Iranian nuclear programme. Posting on X, he penned: “Stability in the Middle East is vital for global security. I’m concerned to see reports of strikes overnight. Further escalation is a serious threat to peace & stability in the region and in no one’s interest.

“This is a dangerous moment & I urge all parties to show restraint.” Starmer has since chaired an urgent Cobra meeting following the escalating tensions. He also held a phone call with Israel’s PM Benjamin Netanyahu.

Speaking about their conversation, a Downing Street spokesman said: “The Prime Minister was clear that Israel has a right to self-defence and set out the UK’s grave concerns about Iran’s nuclear programme. He reiterated the need for de-escalation and a diplomatic resolution, in the interests of stability in the region.”

Starmer also confirmed the UK did not take part in the strikes but declined to say whether Britain would help Israel if Iran attacks again, as it has before.

Like this story? For more of the latest showbiz news and gossip, follow Mirror Celebs onTikTok,Snapchat,Instagram,Twitter,Facebook,YouTubeandThreads.

The pair of elegant Salix Flamingo willow trees come in stylish flared black pots

For shoppers looking to spruce up their garden or outdoor space, Gardening Express is offering a pair of ‘fast-growing’ Topiary Trees Salix Flamingo with Planters for half price. Originally costing £79.99, the two’elegant’ willow trees are now £39.99 and come complete with tall flared black pots.

The retailer says the trees ‘give a relaxed feel’, making them ideal for patios and decking areas, as well as framing front and back doors. The stunning white and pink leaves stand out against the green stems that are dotted along the slightly drooped branches.

The topiary leaves will thicken year on year and are approximately 90-120cm in size. Once situated in the accompanying pots, they will stand at around 120-150cm.

READ MORE: Luxury £30 eco-friendly paint pro decorators say is ‘excellent’ launch new range

READ MORE: Highly fragrant jasmine climbing plant worth £60 gets slashed to half price in time for summer flowering

Shopping marketplace Yimbly (owned by the Mirror’s parent company Reach Plc) is also selling Plant in a Box Salix Flamingo Trees. These cost £44.95 for two, however they don’t come with any planters.

For gardeners wanting to add more than two trees to their outdoor space, B&Q is selling four Salix Integra Flamingo Trees for £56.95. This set also doesn’t include pots to plant the trees in.

Topiary Trees Salix Flamingo with Planters

£79.99

£39.99

Buy here

Over 50 Gardening Express customers have reviewed the Topiary Trees Salix Flamingo with Planters to date, awarding them an impressive overall rating of 4.9 out of five. One happy shopper wrote: “Absolutely delighted with the trees. Arrived sooner than expected and the delivery chap went the extra mile and carried them round the back for me.

“The trees are very healthy and pretty, and were well packaged. They look fabulous in the fluted pots. Very happy customer, I would happily order from Gardening Express again.”

Someone else commented: “Fantastic, beautiful trees delivered in wonderful condition. They look absolutely magnificent bordering our entrance porch.”

Another said: “The trees arrived in perfect condition. Brilliantly packed and look very stylish in their lovely black pots outside my front door. It’s my first purchase from Gardening Express, but certainly won’t be the last.”