Disney CEO Bob Iger has been awarded an honorary knighthood by Prince William, the heir apparent to the British throne. The investiture ceremony took place on Monday in Windsor, England, where Iger, a 73-year-old American businessman and movie executive, was bestowed with the post-nominal title of Knight Commander of the Most Excellent Order of the British Empire (KBE.
People reports that Prince William also conferred other honors on artists, politicians, diplomats, and humanitarians. Among these honorees was Oscar-winning film composer John Williams. Their recognition was announced in 2022, making Iger and Williams among the last people to receive such titles from the late Queen Elizabeth before her death in September of that year.
Iger confirmed his honorary title on X (formerly Twitter), saying it was “one of the great honors of my life,” adding, “I have great affection for the people of the UK & have always appreciated and been inspired by their extraordinary contributions.” His wife since 1995, Willow Bay, shared the moment with a series of Instagram photos featuring Iger, his family, and his new honorary medals.
Other Americans who have been similarly recognized by the British Crown include Angelina Jolie in 2014 for her humanitarian efforts, as well as Bill and Melinda Gates, Ralph Lauren, Bob Hope, and Steven Spielberg. Iger’s knighthood is an honorary title that can be given on the advice of the government to non-British and Commonwealth nationals. With this new honor, he can now display the title “KBE” (Knight Commander of the Most Excellent Order of the British Empire) behind his surname on official documents.