The Academy of Motion Picture Arts and Sciences has announced the recipients of the 2025 Governors Awards. Tom Cruise, Dolly Parton, Debbie Allen, and Wynn Thomas will receive honorary Oscars for their exceptional contributions to cinema and society.
Janet Yang, President of the Academy’s Board of Governors, said in a statement, “The Board is honoured to recognise these brilliant artists.”
Tom Cruise to Be Honoured for Commitment to Cinema and Stunts
Tom Cruise, one of Hollywood’s most bankable stars, will receive an Honorary Oscar for his relentless dedication to theatrical filmmaking. In addition, known for performing his death-defying stunts, Cruise has played a pivotal role in revitalising the box office and the action genre.
Yang praised Cruise’s legacy, saying, “Tom Cruise’s incredible commitment to our filmmaking community, to the theatrical experience, and the stunt community has inspired us all.”
Cruise has received two Best Actor Oscar nominations for Born on the Fourth of July and Jerry Maguire. Moreover, his filmography includes iconic hits like Risky Business, A Few Good Men, Interview With the Vampire, Eyes Wide Shut, and the blockbuster Mission: Impossible series.
Dolly Parton to Receive Jean Hersholt Humanitarian Award
The Academy will award legendary musician and actress Dolly Parton the Jean Hersholt Humanitarian Award for her decades of charitable work. With more than 100 million records sold, 49 studio albums, and iconic roles in films like Nine to Five and Steel Magnolias, Parton’s impact spans music, film, and philanthropy.
Yang said, “Beloved performer Dolly Parton exemplifies the spirit of the Jean Hersholt Humanitarian Award through her unwavering dedication to charitable efforts.”
Parton, a two-time Oscar nominee for Best Original Song, launched the Dollywood Foundation in 1988. Furthermore, she founded Dolly Parton’s Imagination Library, which has since delivered over 285 million free books to children worldwide.
Debbie Allen Recognised for Her Trailblazing Career in Dance and Acting
The Academy will honour Emmy-winning choreographer and actor Debbie Allen for her contributions across film, television, and live performance.
“Debbie Allen is a trailblazing choreographer and actor whose work has captivated generations and crossed genres,” Yang stated.
Allen has choreographed the Academy Awards ceremony seven times and worked on films such as Forget Paris, A Jazzman’s Blues, and The Six Triple Eight. Her acting credits include Fame, Ragtime, and Jo Jo Dancer, Your Life is Calling, while her production work includes Amistad and A Star for Rose.
