Beatles legend Ringo Starr has been honoured by the University of Liverpool after receiving an honorary degree, celebrating his extraordinary contribution to music and the city’s global cultural reputation.
The former Beatles member was awarded an Honorary Doctor of Music by the University on his 86th birthday, with a university delegation travelling to Beverly Hills, California, to present him with the prestigious honour.
Born Richard Starkey in Liverpool’s Dingle district, Ringo remains one of the city’s most recognisable figures, having played a key role in helping The Beatles become one of the most influential bands in music history.
The University of Liverpool said the award recognises his impact on music and the way his work has helped shape Liverpool’s identity and worldwide reputation as a cultural destination.
Ringo Starr receives special Liverpool honour on 86th birthday
The honorary degree was presented during a private ceremony ahead of Ringo’s annual Peace and Love Birthday Event in Los Angeles, where he was joined by family, friends and fellow musicians.
University of Liverpool Chancellor Wendy Beetlestone praised Ringo’s influence, saying his musical career, particularly through The Beatles, had helped inspire people around the world to visit, study and connect with Liverpool.
Accepting the honour, Ringo reflected on his Liverpool roots and the journey that took him from growing up in the city to becoming one of the most famous musicians on the planet.
He thanked the University for travelling to California to present the award and shared a message with graduates back in Liverpool, encouraging them to follow their dreams.
Ringo joins list of honorary graduates recognised by University
Ringo Starr is among a group of figures from music, medicine, sport, policing and pharmaceuticals receiving honorary degrees from the University of Liverpool during this year’s graduation celebrations.
The award adds another chapter to Ringo’s remarkable career, which has seen him become a global music icon while remaining closely connected to his Liverpool roots.
From growing up in the city’s Dingle area to receiving one of Liverpool’s highest academic honours, the recognition celebrates a local boy whose music helped put Liverpool on the world stage.
Speaking to University of Liverpool Ringo Starr said:
“I want to thank the University of Liverpool for this Honorary Degree and for coming all the way to LA to bestow it.
“I’m really honoured.
“It is my hometown and I’ll always love it.
“I’ve been thinking back on my life a lot lately, and when I chose to become a drummer full-time, my family discouraged me.
“And they could have been right!
“But they weren’t, it all worked out.
“So to all the graduates back in Liverpool, I send Peace & Love and want to say don’t be afraid to follow your dreams, or take that right turn and see where it goes, it could lead to an Honorary Doctorate from the University of Liverpool.”
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