The Australian pop sensation and actress Kylie Minogue became an Officer of the Order of the British Empire (OBE) in the traditional New Year’s honors list. The artist, who has battled breast cancer, was honored by Queen Elizabeth on Saturday.
Kylie underwent surgery and chemotherapy after being diagnosed with breast cancer in May 2005. One of the world’s most successful recording artists, Kylie has sold over 40 million albums and over 12 million viewers across the globe tuned-on to watch her special appearance in the Christmas episode of the British TV series ‘Doctor Who’.
Among other recipients of the honors was Sir Ian McKellen, the Shakespearean actor famous for his role as wizard Gandolf in the ‘Lord of the Rings’ series. The actor received the Companion of Honor Award for his contribution to the field of entertainment as well as his active role in forwarding the cause of gay rights.
Actors Leslie Phillips and Julie Walters also received awards for the contribution to cinematic arts. Veteran British television interviewer Michael Parkinson received a knighthood while lesser awards were bestowed upon sports commentator Desmond Lynam and Ian Anderson, the front man of the rock band Jethro Tull.
Brian Ashton, coach of the England Rugby Union team, which made the World Cup final this year, received an award along with the team’s fullback, Jason Robinson. Other sports personalities to be honored included snooker world champion John Higgins and former European 5000 meters champ Brendan Foster.
In business, Stuart Rose, CEO of British retail giants Marks & Spencer, received a knighthood as well as Ian Wilmut, one of the scientists of the team that cloned Dolly the sheep in 1997.
Source: China
