Alan Cumming, the acclaimed actor and host of the popular series The Traitors, made headlines by returning his Officer of the Order of the British Empire (OBE) honour in 2023. This decision came after deep reflection sparked by the death of Queen Elizabeth II and the ongoing conversation about the British Empire’s controversial history.
Cumming received the OBE in 2009, recognised for his contributions to advancing LGBTQ+ rights in the United States. At the time, he felt honoured by the accolade. However, over a decade later, he chose to relinquish the award, explaining that his perspective had shifted significantly due to the discussions around the monarchy and the empire’s impact on indigenous peoples globally.
“The Queen’s death and the ensuing conversations about the role of monarchy — especially how the British Empire profited at the expense and death of indigenous peoples worldwide — really opened my eyes,” Cumming shared. He further noted that changes in US laws and societal attitudes had lessened the award’s influence on LGBTQ+ advocacy, making his association with the “toxicity of empire” harder to reconcile.
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Cumming addressed criticism from media personality Piers Morgan, who called his choice “attention-seeking,” by reaffirming his gratitude and clarifying his intentions. “I returned my award, explained my reasons, and reiterated my great gratitude for being given it in the first place. I’m now back to being plain old Alan Cumming again,” he stated.
This move places Cumming among a notable group of public figures who have returned or declined British honours on principle. Michael Sheen returned his OBE in 2020 after researching Welsh history and feeling compelled by newfound understanding. Journalist Jon Snow declined an OBE in 2000, emphasizing that journalists should avoid accepting royal honours. Iconic musician John Lennon famously returned his MBE in 1965 as a protest against British political actions and conflicts.
Despite returning his OBE, Alan Cumming’s distinguished career remains impressive. He has earned prestigious awards including a BAFTA, two Emmy Awards, an Olivier Award, and two Tony Awards. This upcoming BAFTAs ceremony marks a significant occasion for him, as he hosts the event with renewed personal clarity regarding his values and legacy.