Actor Anthony Hopkins, who won an Oscar for his chilling role as a serial killer in "The Silence of the Lambs," was knighted by Queen Elizabeth Tuesday.

He said he was overwhelmed.

"I am a little bit numb at the moment," said Hopkins (right), who now can be addressed as Sir Anthony, after the ceremony during which the queen enacts an ancient ritual by tapping the recipient on each shoulder with a sword.

"I didn't expect this and I hope I don't sound falsely modest but I am very honored, I can't quite take it in . . . " he said.