Other honorees from the theatrical world include Oscar-winning playwright Ronald Harwood (the 2003 Academy Award for Best Adapted Screenplay for his work on "The Pianist"), whose plays include The Dresser and Taking Sides, who is to be Knighted; as well as stage and television actors Anne Reid (given an MBE), and Sophie Okonedo and John Nettles (both awarded OBEs). In addition, playwright, broadcaster and critic Bonnie Greer was awarded an OBE, while Blanche Marvin, an American who has long been resident in London, was given an honorary MBE for "services to British theatre," which include her tireless championing of the fringe in the annual Peter Brook/Empty Space Awards that she founded and runs.

Zeta-Jones, who previously won an Oscar for her performance in the film version of "Chicago", is quoted on the BBC websites saying, "As a British subject, I feel incredibly proud, at the same time it is overwhelming and humbling. And my mum and dad are delighted beyond belief."