A well-known British actor has been selected as a Commander of the British Empire (CBE) by Queen Elizabeth II, one step below knighthood, the Associated Press reports.

The actor is Oscar winner Colin Firth. In Firth’s film "The King’s Speech," the actor portrayed the Queen’s father, King George VI.

Recipients of these honors are selected by committees of civil servants from nominations made by the government and the public. The winners are announced twice a year.

In addition to Firth, singer Bryan Ferry also was selected for the CBE.