James Corden will be awarded an OBE.

The 36-year-old comedian and TV presenter will be given the title of Officer of the Most Excellent Order of the British Empire in Britain's Queen Elizabeth II's New Year Honours list for his services to the entertainment and charity industries, with the 88-year-old royal reportedly ''delighted'' to hand him the award.

A source told The Sun newspaper: ''James Corden is a huge young talent on many different fronts.

''His charitable work is also very impressive, making him a fantastic ambassador for the nation.''

British actress, Joan Collins, 81 - who already has an OBE - is also expected to be made a dame.

Meanwhile, James - who will take over from Craig Ferguson as the host of 'The Late Late Show' next March - is worried about making his talk show debut in the US.

He joked: ''Why wouldn't I be? I'm from High Wycombe.

''What are the chances of a chubby guy - and I'm being generous - going to America and hosting a talk show every night being anything other than a complete mistake?''

James - who has presented in the past, including comedy sports quiz show 'A League of Their Own' - has already warned the show's producers that giving him the job is a risk.

He explained: ''It's so funny. They called the other day and wanted me to cut together a sizzle reel for the show of great moments in my career that they could play to sponsors.

''So we sent it to them. They said, 'It's great but have you got any stuff of you just interviewing someone?' And we were like, 'No! That's our point. It doesn't exist - you're taking a huge risk!'''

The full New Year Honours list will be published on December 31.

I'm excited for this guy! Can't wait to see him on the Late Late Show!