Tom Cruise to Be Presented Honorary Oscar

Actor and producer Tom Cruise will receive Honorary Awards 35 years after receiving his first Oscar nomination. 

Choreographer and actor Debbie Allen and production designer Wynn Thomas will also be a recipient of the award.

Moreover, music icon and philanthropist Dolly Parton will be recognized with the Jean Hersholt Humanitarian Award.

All four Oscar statuettes will be presented at the 16th annual Governors Awards, taking place November 16 at the Ray Dolby Ballroom at Ovation Hollywood.

“This year’s Governors Awards will celebrate four legendary individuals whose extraordinary careers and commitment to our filmmaking community continue to leave a lasting impact,” said Janet Yang, Academy President. “The Academy’s Board of Governors is honored to recognize these brilliant artists. Debbie Allen is a trailblazing choreographer and actor whose work has captivated generations and crossed genres. Tom Cruise’s incredible commitment to our filmmaking community, to the theatrical experience, and to the stunts community has inspired us all. Beloved performer Dolly Parton exemplifies the spirit of the Jean Hersholt Humanitarian Award through her unwavering dedication to charitable efforts. And production designer Wynn Thomas has brought some of the most enduring films to life through a visionary eye and mastery of his craft.”

The Honorary Award is given to "honor extraordinary distinction in lifetime achievement, exceptional contributions to the state of motion picture arts and sciences, or outstanding service to the Academy."

Cruise, one of the most bankable stars in Hollywood history, has long been a vocal supporter of theatrical exhibition.

He played a key role in reigniting box office momentum during the coronavirus pandemic with “Top Gun: Maverick,” which earned him a best picture nomination as a producer.

Known for performing his own stunts, Cruise’s accolades include three acting Oscar nominations for “Born on the Fourth of July,” “Jerry Maguire” and “Magnolia.” His credits also include “Risky Business,” “A Few Good Men,” “Interview With the Vampire,” “Eyes Wide Shut,” “Vanilla Sky” and the long-running “Mission: Impossible” franchise.

Each year, many names are put forward to be honored with these prestigious awards. 

At last year’s Governors Awards ceremony, honors were presented to Quincy Jones (posthumously), the first Black producer to be nominated for best picture; legendary casting director Juliet Taylor; screenwriter and director Richard Curtis; and longtime James Bond producers Michael G. Wilson and Barbara Broccoli.