Richard Osman Receives OBE at Windsor Castle: A Moment of Pride for the British Author
On May 5, 2026, Thursday Murder Club author and former Pointless co-host Richard Osman was honoured with an Officer of the Order of the British Empire (OBE) at a prestigious investiture ceremony held at Windsor Castle. Presented by the Princess Royal, the award celebrates his exceptional contributions to literature and broadcasting.
With his partner Ingrid Oliver by his side, Osman, 55, expressed his deep pride in being British, recalling the invaluable opportunities he received throughout his life. “I’m very proud of being from Britain,” he shared with the Press Association after the ceremony. “This country paid for my entire education and healthcare when I was growing up.”
Osman, who is known for his sharp wit and literary talents, rose to prominence with the Thursday Murder Club series, blending crime fiction with his signature humour. He also made his mark as a co-host on Pointless, which he left in 2022 after 13 years to focus on his writing.
Speaking candidly about the experience of receiving the OBE at Windsor Castle, Osman confessed to feeling both nervous and honoured, admitting that the ceremony felt more like a responsibility than an accolade. “When you’re in a place like this and you see the pageantry and tradition, it reminds you of one part of Britain, but there’s another part that is equally important – the part where young people are growing up with creative opportunities,” he said.
His Thursday Murder Club series, which follows a group of elderly amateur detectives, has captivated readers since its debut in 2020, cementing Osman as a rising star in crime fiction. With his latest honour, Osman reflects on how far he’s come—and his dedication to ensuring future generations have the same opportunities he did.
