Tom Cruise, the iconic Hollywood actor best known for the Mission: Impossible series, is finally set to receive his first Oscar — 35 years after his initial nomination.
Although he was first nominated for an Academy Award more than three decades ago, luck didn’t favor one of the world’s most popular actors at the time. Now, many believe Cruise is being recognized for his groundbreaking contributions to action cinema, particularly his daring stunt work.
The Academy of Motion Picture Arts and Sciences has announced that Cruise will receive an Honorary Oscar at this year’s Governors Awards.
Joining him in receiving the honor are legendary choreographer Debbie Allen, Do the Right Thing production designer Wynn Thomas, and celebrated musician Dolly Parton.
In a statement, Academy President Janet Yang said, “This year’s Governors Awards will honor four extraordinary individuals for their remarkable careers and contributions to the entertainment industry.”
Cruise has been nominated for an Oscar four times but has never won. He earned Best Actor nominations for Born on the Fourth of July and Jerry Maguire, and a Best Supporting Actor nomination for Magnolia. He was also nominated as a producer in the Best Picture category for Top Gun: Maverick.
Despite multiple nominations, this Honorary Oscar marks Cruise’s first win — a long-awaited recognition of his enduring impact on Hollywood and global cinema.
