Los Angels, US – Global screen icon Tom Cruise has been bestowed with an Academy Honorary Award, marking the first Oscar statuette of his distinguished 45 year career. The award, presented at the annual Governors Awards ceremony, was conferred in recognition of the actor’s extraordinary contribution to the craft of filmmaking, his commitment to the theatrical experience, and his tireless advocacy for the stunts community.
Cruise, 63, a four time competitive Oscar nominee for roles in films such as ‘Born on the Fourth of July’ and ‘Jerry Maguire’, accepted the honour on Sunday evening in Los Angeles. The Academy of Motion Picture Arts and Sciences cited his enduring impact, particularly his role in championing cinema during the industry’s recovery period.
Presented by filmmaker Alejandro González Iñárritu, the ceremony saw Cruise deliver an emotional acceptance speech focusing on the unifying power of the big screen. In his address, he shared that his passion for cinema began as a child watching a ‘beam of light’ in a darkened theatre. The actor affirmed his profound connection to his work, declaring, “Making films is not what I do; it is who I am.”
The Governors Awards gala also honoured choreographer Debbie Allen, production designer Wynn Thomas, and country music star Dolly Parton, who received the Jean Hersholt Humanitarian Award for her charitable endeavours.
