MJ Kim/© MPL Communications Ltd.Paul McCartney has received many major honors during his long career, but the former Beatles star declared that he’s now “made it” — because the iconic U.K. children’s television show Blue Peter presented him with its prestigious “gold badge.”
McCartney received the honor prior to his sold-out concert at London’s O2 arena in December. He reacted by saying, “That is beautiful, that’s a great badge. I will wear it with great pride. Yes! I made it!”
Gold Blue Peter badges are given out to people who are considered role models, are experts in their chosen field or have encouraged and inspired children.
Other notable recipients include Queen Elizabeth II, Harry Potter author JK Rowling, Madonna, Ed Sheeran, David Beckham, and directors Steven Spielberg and Peter Jackson. Jackson will be directing a new film featuring unseen Beatles footage from the band’s Let It Be sessions.
Upon receiving his badge, McCartney was asked by Blue Peter host Lindsey Russell if he had advice for aspiring songwriters.
“The only advice really is to do it… a lot,” Sir Paul said. “I have a songwriting class and the first thing I say to them is, ‘Look, I don’t really know how to do this’ and at first they kind of look at me, but when you think about it, there is no formula.”
Blue Peter is the longest-running children’s TV show in the world and is part of British pop culture. The show takes its name from a maritime signal flag which indicates a boat is about to sail.
In other news, Sir Paul has added a July 6 concert in Vancouver, Canada, to his 2019 Freshen Up Tour schedule. Tickets for the show will go on sale Friday, February 15 at 10 a.m. PT. Visit PaulMcCartney.com to check out pre-sale options.
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