Carey Mulligan receives CBE at Windsor Castle in recognition of her acting career

Highlights

• Carey Mulligan awarded CBE for services to drama
• Honour presented by King Charles III at Windsor Castle
• Actor calls recognition “extraordinary” while reflecting on her career
• Set to star in Narnia: The Magician’s Nephew later this year
• Ceremony included figures from public service, heritage and sport

Recognition at Windsor Castle

Carey Mulligan has been awarded a Commander of the Order of the British Empire (CBE) by King Charles III at an investiture ceremony held at Windsor Castle.

Honoured for her services to drama, the Oscar-nominated actor described the moment as both surprising and deeply meaningful. She said she felt fortunate to work in a profession she loves, adding that such recognition made it all the more special.

Mulligan was among several recipients on the day, alongside figures from sectors including heritage, defence and sport.

A career shaped by acclaimed roles

Over the years, Mulligan has built a body of work across film, television and stage. Her breakthrough came with An Education, which earned her a BAFTA win and an Academy Award nomination.

She has since appeared in films such as The Great Gatsby and Drive, while more recent performances include Maestro and Promising Young Woman, both of which brought further Oscar nominations.

Her latest screen appearance came in the Bafta-nominated The Ballad of Wallis Island, continuing a run of projects that balance independent storytelling with wider releases.

Mulligan is next set to appear in Narnia: The Magician’s Nephew, directed by Greta GerwigGetty Images

Looking ahead to Narnia

Mulligan is next set to appear in Narnia: The Magician’s Nephew, directed by Greta Gerwig. The film, backed by Netflix, also features Emma Mackey, Daniel Craig and Meryl Streep.

Speaking at Windsor, she described the project as a “dream job”, reflecting her enthusiasm for the upcoming adaptation of The Chronicles of Narnia.

Asked about the future of the James Bond role, previously played by her co-star Daniel Craig, Mulligan said the key requirement for any successor would be strong acting ability, noting the challenge of following his tenure.

A steady presence on stage and screen

Beyond film, Mulligan has maintained a consistent presence in theatre and television, contributing to a career that spans genres and formats.

The CBE marks a formal recognition of that body of work, acknowledging both her performances and her wider contribution to British drama.