Tom Cruise To Receive Honorary Oscar

The Academy of Motion Picture Arts and Sciences announced on Tuesday that Hollywood icon Tom Cruise will receive his first Honorary Oscar at the 16th annual Governors Awards, scheduled for November 16, 2025, at Ray Dolby Ballroom at Ovation Hollywood. The announcement follows the recent release of "Mission: Impossible – The Final Reckoning", the eighth instalment in Cruise's long-running spy-action franchise.

Known for performing his own high-risk stunts, Tom Cruise has solidified his position as a legendary action star through his portrayal of Ethan Hunt. He has previously earned two Academy Award nominations for Best Actor for "Born on the Fourth of July" and "Jerry Maguire" and received a Best Picture nomination as a producer of “Top Gun: Maverick" in 2023.

Joining Cruise in receiving awards are acclaimed choreographer and actress Debbie Allen and veteran production designer Wynn Thomas. In addition, music icon and philanthropist Dolly Parton will be honoured with the prestigious Jean Hersholt Humanitarian Award, given to individuals in the film industry for humanitarian efforts.

Debbie Allen is celebrated for her role as Lydia Grant in the television series 'Fame' and choreographed multiple Academy Awards ceremonies. Wynn Thomas, who began his career with Spike Lee's 'She Gotta Have It', has played a pivotal role in shaping the visual language of cinema.

The Honorary Awards, also known as Governors Awards, recognise lifetime achievement and exceptional contribution to cinema, typically presented a few months prior to the annual Oscars in March.