>IMO. He was an actual King.
He was a descendant of David, so yes.
Herod on the other hand became king of Judea through a combination of political maneuvering, military force, and Roman support. Initially, he was appointed governor of Galilee by his father, Antipater. Following the Parthian invasion and the installation of a new Hasmonean king, Herod fled to Rome. There, he secured the backing of Mark Antony and Octavian, who convinced the Roman Senate to name him King of Judea. With Roman military assistance, Herod then fought to reclaim Jerusalem and establish his rule.