"Sherlock" star Benedict Cumberbatch and Eddie Redmayne had been in a friendly competition ever since both actors received nominations for various award-giving bodies such as the Oscars, Golden Globes, BAFTAs and more.
Redmayne took home most of the Best Actor awards for his outstanding role as Stephen Hawking in "The Theory Of Everything".
However, "The Imitation Game" star was finally able to outshine his friend during the Queen's Birthday Honours last Friday.
While both Benedict Cumberbatch and Eddie Redmayne were awarded by the monarchy for their outstanding performances as actors, the "Lord Of The Rings" star received a higher recognition over Redmayne.
According to Digital Spy, the 38-year-old father-to-be received a CBE (Commander of the British Empire) which was just a step below Knighthood while Redmayne was awarded an OBE (Order of the British Empire).
Cumberbatch isn't the only one who received a CBE for his service to the culture and the arts. Actor Chiwetel Ejiofor and Michael Bond (who wrote "Paddington Bear") were given the same award.
On the other hand, Olivier Award winner Lesley Manville, "Doc Martin" star Martin Clunes, singer Michael Ball and Nicky Campbell were awarded OBEs alongside Redmayne. "Doctor Who" and "Sherlock" creator Steven Moffat also received the same recognition.
On the other hand, Kevin Spacey, despite being American, received a special Knighthood for his work with the Old Vic.
Benedict Cumberbatch and Eddie Redmayne most likely would be facing each other again in the future. Especially since both talented artists have several movies lined up in the next couple of years.
Cumberbatch will be seen in the mobster movie "Black Mass" alongside Johnny Depp. He will also be taking on "Doctor Who" for Marvel and Shere Kahn for Disney's live adaptation of "Jungle Book" among other things.
On the other hand, Redmayne recently finalized talks to star as Newt Scamander in the "Harry Potter" spinoff, "Fantastic Beasts And Where To Find Them".
Aside from their well-deserved awards, the two actors are also adjusting to their lives as newly-married men. No doubt their wives are very proud of them.
