Ringo Starr rang in his 86th birthday on July 7, 2026, with a gift of an honorary doctorate from the University of Liverpool.

The former Beatles drummer received the honor just before his annual “Peace & Love” birthday celebration at Beverly Gardens Park in Beverly Hills, California. A delegation from the university traveled all the way from Liverpool to Los Angeles to present him with the award in a private ceremony, ahead of the public party that followed.

The degree was conferred by University of Liverpool Chancellor Wendy Beetlestone, who named it an Honorary Doctor of Music. Beetlestone said it was a privilege to recognise Starr, whose work with the Beatles has helped shape Liverpool’s identity and reputation around the world. The university’s vice-chancellor, Tim Jones, echoed this and noted the degree reflects genuine respect for what Starr has contributed to music and to his hometown’s culture.

Starr, born Richard Starkey in Liverpool, was visibly moved by the gesture. He thanked the university for making the trip and admitted he’d been reflecting on his life and career lately, making the moment even more special and emotional. He recalled that his family wasn’t fully supportive when he decided to pursue drumming full-time, but he took the leap anyway. He closed his remarks with a message for that year’s Liverpool graduates that stated, “don’t be afraid to follow your dreams, because you never know where an unexpected turn might lead”.

His birthday bash carried on the tradition he’s kept since 2008, complete with his signature “peace and love” chant. Guests included wife Barbara Bach, guitarist T-Bone Burnett, drummer Jim Keltner, and actor Ed Begley Jr., along with performances from some of Starr’s favourite artists.

The honorary degree adds to an already remarkable list of accolades for Starr, who was inducted into the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame and knighted in 2018. He’s also staying busy musically after the recent release of his country album, ‘Long Long Road’, and his collaboration with former bandmate Paul McCartney on a duet titled ‘Home to Us’ which appears on McCartney’s latest album, ‘The Boys Of Dungeon Lane’.

Starr and his All-Starr band concluded their tour around the U.S last month, and for now he has shown all fans across the world that achievements and surprises can come at any time, which sparks hope in seeing more live performances and appearances from the iconic drummer.