The Oscars are finally recognizing Tom Cruise with an honorary Oscar after decades of being overlooked, highlighting his enduring box office success and acting talent, despite previous snubs from the Academy. The move underscores Cruise's significant impact on Hollywood and the changing dynamics of award recognition.
Tom Cruise will be honored with an Honorary Oscar for lifetime achievement at the Governors Awards this fall, recognizing his significant contributions to the film industry, despite not having won a competitive Oscar during his career.
Dolly Parton will receive an honorary Oscar at the 2025 Governors Awards for her humanitarian work, recognized alongside Tom Cruise, Debbie Allen, and Wynn Thomas, highlighting her lasting impact beyond her music career.
Kathleen Kennedy has been lobbying for an Honorary Oscar for Disney CEO Bob Iger, sparking controversy within the Academy due to potential conflicts of interest related to Disney's ownership of ABC, the Oscars' broadcast partner. While Iger's contributions to the industry are recognized, some members are wary of the optics amid ongoing negotiations with ABC and Kennedy's future at Lucasfilm remains uncertain.
97-year-old Mel Brooks received a lifetime achievement Oscar at the Governors Awards, joking about selling his previous Oscar and vowing not to sell this one. Angela Bassett was also honored, emphasizing the need for a more inclusive and forward-thinking industry. The event provided an opportunity for Oscars hopefuls to network with Academy voters, with attendees including Christopher Nolan, Emma Stone, and Leonardo DiCaprio. The delayed Governors Awards were also a chance to honor industry veterans Carol Littleton and Michelle Satter.
Angela Bassett is set to receive an honorary Oscar from The Academy of Motion Picture Arts and Sciences for her extraordinary contributions to the state of motion picture arts and sciences. However, many argue that she deserves a real Oscar, especially considering her iconic performances in films like "What's Love Got to Do With It?" and her role as Queen Ramonda in "Black Panther." With her cultural significance, immense talent, and longevity in the industry, Bassett's fans believe she deserves more than just an honorary award.