As announced by the event’s organisers on Tuesday, Tom Cruise, the renowned US actor and film producer, will receive an honorary Oscar prior to the 2026 Academy Awards. This recognition marks a significant milestone in the Hollywood veteran’s career.
Cruise has been honoured with a statuette in recognition of his significant contributions to the film industry. He shares this accolade with choreographer Debbie Allen and production designer Wynn Thomas.
Dolly Parton will receive the Jean Hersholt Humanitarian Award in recognition of her decades-long humanitarian efforts. The awards will be presented during the Academy’s 16th Governors Awards event in November.
Cruise, 62, has four Oscar nominations yet has not secured the coveted award, even though he has garnered international acclaim for his performances in blockbuster action films such as Mission: Impossible and Top Gun.
The Academy issued a statement highlighting Tom Cruise’s remarkable dedication to the filmmaking community, the theatrical experience, and the stunts community, noting that his commitment has inspired many.
The statement lauded him as “one of the most recognised and highest-grossing actors of all time,” highlighting his dedication to executing all of his stunts.
At the age of 75, Allen has been honoured for her remarkable five-decade career, which includes her choreography for the Academy Awards ceremony on seven occasions and her contributions to films such as the 1995 romantic comedy Forget Paris.
In the meantime, Thomas received accolades for his production efforts on notable films, including ‘Malcolm X’ and ‘Do the Right Thing’.
