Tom Cruise is set to receive his first Honorary Oscar after four nominations, in a ceremony that will also honour Debbie Allen.
The Academy of Motion Picture Arts and Sciences has announced the honourees for the 16th annual Governors Awards. Among them is Tom Cruise, who will receive his first Honorary Oscar in recognition of more than three decades of contributions to the film industry.
Although previously nominated four times for films such as Jerry Maguire, Magnolia, and Top Gun: Maverick, this will be his first Academy Award. Academy President Janet Yang praised Cruise for his “commitment to the cinematic experience and the stunt community”, highlighting his advocacy for movie theatres and large-scale spectacle on the big screen.
Debbie Allen, choreographer and actress with a significant career in both television and film, and Wynn Thomas, a pioneering production designer, will also be honoured. In addition, Dolly Parton will receive the Jean Hersholt Humanitarian Award for her philanthropic work.
The untelevised ceremony will take place on 16 November 2025 at the Ray Dolby Ballroom in Los Angeles.
