Peaky Blinders star Stephen Graham celebrates royal honour after being told to 'get a proper job'

The actor has officially received his OBE for services to drama

Peaky Blinders star Stephen Graham headed to Buckingham Palace on Thursday to receive his OBE for services to drama. A poignant moment for the actor – who landed his first on-screen role in 1990 – Stephen commemorated his achievement by sharing a photo of his medal on Instagram. He captioned it: "For you mum and for any kid that's ever been told to 'get a proper job' Photo by @gracexgrahamx."

Sparking a major reaction from his 246k followers, many were quick to congratulate Stephen. His co-star Sam Claflin was among the first to respond, writing: "You bloody legend. So well deserved mate. So proud of you." 

's Aljaž Škorjanec also commented, replying: "Is there a better British actor anyway? Congratulations." 

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"Beautiful bro," added Stephen's co-star, Vicky McClure. 

Meanwhile, Stephen's wife of 15 years and actress, Hannah Walters, made sure to celebrate his achievement too, and she penned a sweet message to him on Twitter. Posting a photo of her husband holding his OBE, Hannah wrote: "Nipped out yesterday and came home with this…. so proud." 

Stephen received his royal honour just months after his mother sadly passed away. Following her death in December 2022, Stephen broke the news with a heartbreaking tribute on Instagram. 

It read: "A few days ago… this incredible, inspirational, warrior woman. With the purest heart… my mum passed away. Her words as a child 'no one is above you and no one is below you… all are equal' have remained with me throughout my life. I feel so honoured and proud to share this with her…An OBE for both of us mum."

After landing his first role in 1990, Stephen has gone on to establish an impressive body of work. Famed for portraying Andrew "Combo" Gascoigne in the film and its television sequels, he has also appeared in , , and . As of 2023, Stephen is set to star in a period boxing drama titled A Thousand Blows, which will premiere on Disney+. 

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