What Exactly Are the Knighthood and Damehood Titles Christopher Nolan and Emma Thomas Will Receive From British Royalty?

Published 03/29/2024, 2:30 AM EDT

Christopher Nolan and Emma Thomas are among the rare creative duos in the film industry who have truly stood the test of time. The accolades for Oppenheimer's brilliance are owed to both of them, with one steering the ship as director and the other orchestrating behind the scenes as a producer. While Nolan might hog the limelight for the Oscar-winning movie, Thomas has been his right-hand woman every step of the way. Having earned their rightful acclaim at the Oscars, the duo is now in the running for another feather in their cap. Or perhaps, a nod from the highest of highs.

Both Nolan and Thomas are on the list of Knighthood and Damehood titles that they will receive from Buckingham Palace. Here is everything to know about the prestigious honor.

What are the Knighthood and Damehood Titles?

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As reported by The Associated Press, Christopher Nolan and Emma Thomas have been nominated for Knighthood and Damehood in the United Kingdom for their outstanding service to the film industry. Being knighted or becoming a dame is one of the UK's most prestigious honors, usually reserved for those who have made significant national-level achievements in their field. From researchers to filmmakers, people from various fields receive the accolade. 

via Imago

Although the exact beginnings of this honor are not defined, they are believed to have roots dating back to ancient Rome. Throughout the Middle Ages, knights underwent rigorous training from a tender age which helped them stand shoulder to shoulder with their liege lords in times of trouble. While once upon a time knighthoods were primarily awarded for acts of military valor, nowadays it is also for outstanding contributions to society. However, when it comes to Christopher Nolana and Emma Thomas’ honor, there is a small hiccup. 

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Typically, the Knighthood and Damehood honors are bestowed by the British monarch. But, as everyone knows, the King is currently off his royal duties.

When will Christopher Nolan and Emma Thomas receive their honor?

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Christopher Nolan and Emma Thomas, through their production banner, Syncopy, brought to life several of the director’s blockbuster endeavors, including the Batman trilogy, The Prestige, Interstellar, and Tenet. And their award from the British royals largely hinges on their extraordinary feats in moviemaking and their success with Oppenheimer. Usually, the news about who is getting Knighthood and Damehood is spilled at the start of the year and on King Charles III’s birthday. 

via Imago

That is because it is the King who does the knighting. Usually, it is done at a fancy event at Buckingham Palace by the monarch themselves. But with King Charles currently on a break due to cancer treatment, it is hard to say when Christopher Nolan and Emma Thomas will get their prestigious honor. 

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What do you think about Christopher Nolan and Emma Thomas being up for the Knighthood and Damehood titles? Let us know your thoughts in the comments below!

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Hriddhi Maitra

947 articles

Hriddhi Maitra is a Hollywood News reporter at Netflix Junkie. An enthusiastic movie buff, Hriddhi found her true calling when she worked as a Cinema Content Writer at My Cinema Story while analyzing movies objectively, and offering constructive feedback. Coming from a background where she worked in different niches like finance, food, travel, medicines, automobile, and entertainment, we can safely say she is a jack of all trades.

Edited By: Aliza Siddiqui

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