Some people are just too swamped with real life to bother with a ceremony. David Bowie famously said no, and honestly, can you imagine Ziggy Stardust kneeling in a stuffy palace? That’s like asking a tornado to sign a guestbook. He later accepted a CBE in 2000, but the full knighthood? Hard pass. It’s the rock star equivalent of saying, “Sorry, I’ve got a gig that night.”
Then there’s John Cleese, who turned down a knighthood because he said it would be “tedious.” You know that friend who hates weddings because of the small talk? That’s John. He probably imagined the stiff upper lips and endless speeches about “heritage” and thought, “I’d rather be at home watching Monty Python reruns.” Fair point.
The “I Have Principles” Club
Not everyone says no because they’re busy—some do it out of pure stubborn principle. Danny Boyle, the director of Slumdog Millionaire and the 2012 Olympics opening ceremony, turned down a knighthood because he thought honours were a bit “silly.” Imagine spending months planning the most watched event on Earth, and then telling the Queen, “Thanks, but no thanks.” That’s like getting an A+ on a test and then telling the teacher you don’t want the sticker. Bold move.
Albert Finney, the legendary actor, was offered a knighthood three times. Every time, he said “no.” His reason? He didn’t want to be called “Sir” because it felt too grand and separate from everyone else. It’s like that one mate who refuses to dress up for a party because they think it’s “fake.” You just nod and think, “Respect, but also, you’re missing out on free champagne.”
Who has turned down a knighthood? Notable people who have declined honours
