Photo Variety
This award is different from the traditional Oscars, as Cruise had previously been nominated four times but did not win the statuette. The honorary Oscar is awarded for overall contributions to the film industry rather than for specific achievements in individual films. Additionally, this award is not given annually and is issued only at the discretion of the Academy's Board of Governors.
The statuette was presented to the actor by director Alejandro G. Iñárritu, with whom Cruise is currently working on a new project set to premiere in October 2026.
During the award ceremony, Cruise delivered a touching speech in which he thanked everyone involved in the creation and promotion of cinema.
“Cinema allows me to travel the world, teaches me to appreciate and respect diversity. It also demonstrates our shared humanity and shows how similar we are in many aspects. Regardless of our backgrounds, in this room we laugh, experience, and hope together — that is the power of art. That is why making films is so important to me and is part of my essence,” he noted.
Furthermore, the actor shared that his passion for cinema began in childhood when he first visited a movie theater.
