Thaindian News

June 14, 2010 (Pen Men at Work): Catherine Zeta Jones was overwhelmed to receive the CBE from Queen Elizabeth II herself. The Welsh born actress commented that she was extremely pleased at being chosen for the prestigious honor on the Queen’s birthday. It has been the tradition of Britain’s Royal family to honor prominent British citizens who do the nation proud by virtue of their deeds, in various fields.

The CBE is reckoned as the third most prestigious honor and means ‘commander’ literally. It ranks just below that of knighthood which is dame hood in case of women.

Cathetine, was amazed and stated as being absolutely thrilled and overwhelmed. She also said that receiving such an honor from the hands of the queen herself is a humbling experience in itself. She continued saying that her parents were extremely happy for her and overjoyed at the prospect of their daughter being conferred with the CBE.

Catherine was among eminent company as she got to receive the honor with the screenwriter Ronald Harwood and the noble laureate Charles K. Kao. Co-recipient Harwood confessed that this particular information had to be kept under wraps for almost six weeks and proved be an experience that surpassed getting an Oscar.

The honor means finding herself in illustrious circles as Catherine Zeta Jones discovered. This honor had been conferred on eminent personalities like Eric Clapton, Anthony Hopkins, Stephen Hawking, Billy Connelly and Elton John previously.

Although Catherine can surely add a CBE after her name now, she cannot be called a ‘Dame’ as that represents a higher honor. However, the actress isn’t complaining and we hope to see her live up to the honors going from strength to strength in the future.