Tom Cruise has done it all. He’s raced fighter jets, dangled from skyscrapers, and sprinted through explosions. Now, after decades of blockbuster hits, the Hollywood legend will finally take home an Oscar.
The Academy of Motion Picture Arts and Sciences will honour Cruise with an Honorary Oscar at the 2025 Governors Awards.
TOM CRUISE, THE ACTION STAR
The event will take place at the Ray Dolby Ballroom in Los Angeles on 16 November.
For South African fans, this is big news, as Cruise has long been a favourite, lighting up screens. His films, especially the Mission: Impossible series, have packed cinemas across South Africa.
Tom Cruise’s journey to Oscar glory has been a long one, as despite four nominations, he had never clinched the golden statuette, according to NDTV.
TOM CRUISE’S ACHIEVEMENTS IN CINEMA
The Academy now recognises his “extraordinary distinction in lifetime achievement, exceptional contributions to the state of motion picture arts and sciences, or outstanding service to the Academy”.
“This year’s Governors Awards will celebrate four legendary individuals. Their extraordinary careers and commitment to our filmmaking community continue to leave a lasting impact,” said Academy President Janet Yang.
She added, “Tom Cruise’s incredible commitment to our filmmaking community, to the theatrical experience, and the stunts community has inspired us all”.
CINEMAS DURING COVID
Tom Cruise, now 62, is known for his fearless approach to filmmaking, as he’s recognised for performing his stunts, pushing the limits of what’s possible.
The Academy praised his role in keeping cinemas alive during the COVID-19 pandemic, when he championed the return to theatres.
“One of the most recognised and highest-grossing actors of all time, Cruise has been a committed advocate of the theatrical experience,” the Academy stated.
TOM CRUISE’S FILMOGRAPHY
His film credits read like a greatest hits of modern cinema: Risky Business, Top Gun, A Few Good Men, Jerry Maguire, Magnolia, and, of course, the Mission: Impossible franchise.
Each film has left its mark on audiences worldwide, including right here in South Africa.
Tom Cruise’s Oscar will sit alongside honours for Debbie Allen, Wynn Thomas, and Dolly Parton, who will receive the Jean Hersholt Humanitarian Award for their charitable work.
In Cruise’s own words, “I make movies for the big screen. The experience is everything.” Now, the Academy agrees.
WHICH TOM CRUISE FILM IS YOUR ALL-TIME FAVOURITE?
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