Tom Cruise Receives First-Ever Oscar: Honorary Award at 62

November 17, 2025 Published by Natarajan Karuppiah

Los Angeles: Tom Cruise, one of Hollywood’s most prominent stars, has received his first Oscar at the age of 62. At the 16th Governors Awards ceremony organized by the American Academy of Motion Picture Arts and Sciences (AMPAS), he was presented with the Honorary Oscar Award. This prestigious award was given in recognition of his unparalleled contributions to the film industry over several decades as an actor, producer, and action superstar.

The event took place on November 16, 2025, at the Ray Dolby Ballroom, where Tom Cruise, in an emotional acceptance speech, said, “Making movies is not my job; it is the identity of my life.” Director Alejandro G. Iñárritu, who introduced him, praised him by saying, “Tom Cruise doesn’t just make movies; he makes the world believe in the power of cinema.” It is also noteworthy that Cruise is currently working with Iñárritu on his next film.

Over a career spanning more than 45 years, Cruise has performed daring and dangerous stunts himself in blockbuster films like Top Gun and the Mission: Impossible series, creating billion-dollar successes. After four previous Oscar nominations, he has now received this honorary recognition. In his speech, he emphasized that his dedication is also evident in encouraging new voices in the film industry and in efforts to preserve the power of cinema.

At this ceremony, apart from Tom Cruise, actress-director Debbie Allen and production designer Wynn Thomas were also honored with Honorary Oscars. Singer-actress Dolly Parton received the Jean Hersholt Humanitarian Award. The event also served as a campaign platform for the Academy’s 2026 Oscar Awards.

Tom Cruise’s achievement has brought immense joy to his fans and movie enthusiasts. Even as he approaches his 63rd year, Cruise continues to take on new challenges and remains an enduring icon of Hollywood.