Tom Cruise Awarded Honorary Oscar at 2025 Governors Awards for Lifetime Contribution to Cinema

Tom Cruise Honoured with First-Ever Honorary Oscar at the 2025 Governors Awards

Hollywood icon Tom Cruise has received his first Academy Award in the form of an Honorary Oscar at the 2025 Governors Awards, recognising his decades-long contribution to global cinema. The ceremony marked a historic milestone in the 63-year-old actor’s career, celebrating his influence on modern filmmaking and his evolution into one of the industry’s most recognisable performers.

A Landmark Moment for the Blockbuster Star

Cruise, known for shaping the action and sci-fi genres through acclaimed films and the Mission: Impossible franchise, has long been regarded as a powerhouse in Hollywood. Though previously nominated for multiple Oscars, he had never won until this honour. The Academy described him as a “trailblazer whose commitment to cinematic excellence has inspired generations.”

About the Honorary Oscar Tradition

The Honorary Award is one of the Academy's oldest recognitions, introduced in 1929 to honour individuals who have made extraordinary contributions to cinema. Since 2009, these awards have been presented in a separate ceremony — the Governors Awards — allowing the Academy to spotlight creative talent beyond competitive categories.

How Recipients Are Selected

The Board of Governors of the Academy of Motion Picture Arts and Sciences votes annually to select up to four honourees. Awardees may include actors, directors, producers, technicians, and cultural contributors whose work has significantly impacted film history.

Exam Oriented Facts

• Tom Cruise received his first-ever Oscar — an Honorary Oscar — in 2025.

• The Honorary Oscar recognises lifetime achievement and contribution to cinema.

• It is awarded by the Academy’s Board of Governors .

• Honorary Awards began in 1929 ; a dedicated ceremony started in 2009 .