Congratulations to Dame Emma Thompson! The Oscar-winning actress was just named a Dame (the British equivalent of a knighthood) by Queen Elizabeth.

Also being awarded with slightly lesser honors: Tom Hardy, who was awarded a CBE (Commander of the Most Excellent Order of the British Empire, which is two spots lower than a knighthood); and Keira Knightley, who received an OBE, Officer of the Most Excellent Order of the British Empire.

Most excellent news all around.

Thompson, who won a Best Supporting Actress Oscar for "Howards End" and a Best Adapted Screenplay Oscar for "Sense and Sensibility," just starred in a BBC production of "King Lear" with her "Howards End" costar, Anthony Hopkins.

She also has "The Children Act" opening in August in the UK. She plays a judge in the drama, which was written by novelist Ian McEwan.

[Via Deadline]