Maggie Smith, Downton Abbey Star, 79, Honored by Queen Elizabeth II

Oscar-winning actress Dame Maggie Smith was honored by the Queen who made her a member of the Order of the Companions of Honor (CH) in recognition of her 60 years in theater, cinema and TV.

The award is limited to 65 living people “of distinction.” Other members include physicist Stephen Hawking, actor Ian McKellen and artist David Hockney.

Read more about the actress and see more photos from the ceremony here.