The Academy of Motion Picture Arts and Sciences announced that Tom Cruise, Debbie Allen and longtime Spike Lee collaborator and production designer Wynn Thomas will receive honorary Oscars at the 2025 Governors Awards. In addition, Dolly Parton will receive the Academy’s Jean Hersholt Humanitarian Award. (per Deadline.)
The Oscar statuettes will be presented in a ceremony for the 16th annual Governors Awards on November 16 at the Ray Dolby Ballroom at Ovation Hollywood.
A press release states that Academy Honorary Awards are meant to commemorate “extraordinary distinction in lifetime achievement, exceptional contributions to the state of motion picture arts and sciences in any discipline or for outstanding service to the Academy.”
The Jean Hersholt Humanitarian Award set to be awarded to Parton recognizes the recipient’s dedication to “promoting human welfare and contributing to rectifying inequities.”
Academy president Janet Yang said in a release announcing the news: “This year’s Governors Awards will celebrate four legendary individuals whose extraordinary careers and commitment to our filmmaking community continue to leave a lasting impact. The Academy’s Board of Governors is honored to recognize these brilliant artists. Debbie Allen is a trailblazing choreographer and actor, whose work has captivated generations and crossed genres. Tom Cruise’s incredible commitment to our filmmaking community, to the theatrical experience, and to the stunts community has inspired us all. Beloved performer Dolly Parton exemplifies the spirit of the Jean Hersholt Humanitarian Award through her unwavering dedication to charitable efforts. And production designer Wynn Thomas has brought some of the most enduring films to life through a visionary eye and mastery of his craft.”
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