Summary
- Global star Tom Cruise will receive his first Oscar, Honorary Oscar after four previous nominations
- This marks his first Academy Awards, 35 years after his initial Oscar nomination
The School of Film Arts and Sciences has announced its esteemed winner of the 16th Annual Governor’s Award, which is dedicated to recognizing the extraordinary contribution of film to film. Among the celebrities who aim to win the honorary Oscar statues are global superstars Tom Cruisepioneering choreographer and actress Debbie Allen and visionary production designer Wynn Thomas. In addition, country music legend Dolly Parton will receive the Jean Hersholt Humanitarian Award. The award will be presented at a secret-free ceremony at the Ray Dolby Ballroom in Los Angeles on November 16, 2025.
For Tom Cruise, it marked his first Academy Awards, 35 years after his initial Oscar nomination. Although he was nominated for four times for his performance and production work (including Born on July 4,,,,, Jerry Maguire,,,,, Mulanand Top Gun: Mavericks), Oscars are fiercely competitive. College President Janet Yang praised Cruise for his “incredible commitment to our filmmaking community, theatrical experience and the stunt community”, highlighting his unwavering commitment to the big screen wonders and his role in advocating drama records.
Additionally, Tom Cruise joins the Riverside talent Debbie Allen, who will be celebrated for her huge influence in dance, film and television. Wynn Thomas’ contribution to visual storytelling in the cinema will also be honored.
