Arise, Sir Peter, Sir Patrick

JAN 1, 2010 - Congratulations to Sir Peter and Sir Patrick! Kiwi film-maker Peter Jackson (pictured right) and Briton Patrick Stewart (left) were granted knighthoods by their respective nations.

Actually, knighthoods were abolished in New Zealand in 2000, so naming Jackson a knight of the realm constitutes a reinstatement of the privilege for the first time in a decade. "I didn't think anything would surpass the 2004 Academy Awards, but I was wrong," Sir Peter said. "The feeling of gratitude and pride I have in accepting this honour from my home country is profound."

Jackson's latest film, The Lovely Bones, opens on Jan 15.

Patrick Stewart of Star Trek and X-Men fame, led Queen Elizabeth's honours list, receiving a knighthood for services to drama. "This is an honour that embraces those actors, directors and creative teams who have in these recent years helped fill my life with inspiration, companionship and sheer fun," said Sir Patrick who can be seen in Sinbad: The Fifth Voyage later this year.