After 35 years since his first Oscar nomination, Tom Cruise is finally set to receive an honorary Oscar at the upcoming Governors Awards. While not awarded specifically for his iconic action stunts, Cruise’s recognition highlights his extensive contributions to cinema and dedication to theatrical moviegoing.
Alongside him, choreographer Debbie Allen and production designer Wynn Thomas will also be honored with honorary Oscars. Country music legend Dolly Parton will receive the prestigious Jean Hersholt Humanitarian Award for her philanthropic work in literacy and education.
Honoring Visionary Artists for Lifelong Impact on Film, Theater, and Visual Storytelling Excellence
Academy President Janet Yang praised the honorees as individuals whose “extraordinary careers and commitment” have left a “lasting impact” on the film industry. Cruise, now 62, has been nominated four times for Oscars but never won. His nominations span across roles in Born on the Fourth of July, Jerry Maguire, Magnolia, and Top Gun: Maverick.
During the COVID-19 pandemic, Cruise remained a vocal advocate for the preservation of theatrical experiences and large-scale film production, further cementing his influence in the industry.
Tom CruiseDebbie Allen, a multifaceted performer and producer, is being honored despite never having received an Oscar nomination herself. Her extensive work includes choreographing seven Oscar ceremonies, with four of those earning Emmy nominations.
Production designer Wynn Thomas, also previously unrecognized by the Academy, has played a key role in shaping the visual tone of award-winning and nominated films. Best known for his long-standing collaboration with director Spike Lee, Thomas’s work includes celebrated films like Malcolm X, She’s Gotta Have It, and Da 5 Bloods.
Dolly Parton Honored for Transformative Philanthropy in Literacy, Education, and Humanitarian Impact
Dolly Parton, who has earned two Oscar nominations for Best Original Song, will receive the Jean Hersholt Humanitarian Award. The honor reflects her lifelong dedication to philanthropy, particularly in the fields of literacy and education.
Through the Dollywood Foundation and the Imagination Library, Parton has worked tirelessly to improve children’s access to books and educational resources. Janet Yang noted that Parton “exemplifies the spirit” of the award, celebrating individuals who have made significant humanitarian contributions.
The Governors Awards will take place on November 16 at the Ray Dolby Ballroom in Los Angeles. The event is not televised, but it remains a significant occasion in the awards season calendar. Last year’s recipients included legendary names such as Quincy Jones and Barbara Broccoli. The honorary Oscars and Jean Hersholt Award are chosen by the Academy’s Board of Governors to recognize lifetime achievement, contributions to cinema, and exceptional service to the motion picture arts and sciences.