Hollywood icon Tom Cruise, aged 62, has finally experienced the joy of winning his first-ever Oscar.
The Academy of Motion Picture Arts and Sciences (AMPAS) announced on its official website on the 17th that Tom Cruise, alongside choreographer Debbie Allen and production designer Wynn Thomas, were selected as this year’s recipients of the Honorary Academy Awards. The awards will be presented at the 16th Governors Awards in the Ray Dolby Ballroom at Ovation Hollywood on November 16.
Academy President Janet Yang stated, "This year’s Governors Awards celebrates four legendary individuals whose exceptional careers and dedication to the film production community have made a lasting impact. The Academy's Board of Governors is honored to recognize these remarkable artists."
The Honorary Academy Award is given to individuals 'for lifetime achievement, exceptional contributions to the state of motion picture arts and sciences, or for outstanding service to the Academy.'
The Academy praised Cruise as "one of the most famous and highest-grossing actors of all time," noting his "incredible dedication to the film-making community, providing audiences with thrilling experiences, and his commitment to the stunt community has inspired us all." They added, "During the COVID-19 pandemic, he played a pivotal role in helping the film industry navigate through challenging times, including performing all his own stunts, showcasing his deep commitment to his craft."
With this honorary award, Cruise has finally taken home his first Oscar trophy. Despite being nominated for Best Actor in 1990 for 'Born on the Fourth of July,' in 1997 for 'Jerry Maguire,' and for Best Supporting Actor in 2000 for 'Magnolia,' he had never won. In 2023, he was nominated for Best Picture for 'Top Gun: Maverick' but did not win.
For Cruise, this award holds special significance, coming 35 years after his first Academy nomination and also recognizing the achievements of his iconic 'Mission: Impossible' series.
(SBS Entertainment News | Kim Ji-hye)