WEB DESK: US film star Tom Cruise has won his first Oscar. The 63-year-old actor was awarded an honorary Oscar at the annual Governors Awards in Hollywood.
Singer and philanthropist Dolly Parton, choreographer Debbie Allen and production designer Win Thomas were also honored at the ceremony.
“Making movies is not my profession, it’s my identity,” said Cruise, a four-time Oscar nominee. He paid tribute to all the filmmakers and actors he has worked with during his 45-year film career and highlighted the power and importance of films.
When Cruise took the stage, fans and film personalities, including Steven Spielberg, Leonardo DiCaprio and Jerry Bruckheimer, gave him a standing ovation. The award was presented by filmmaker Alejandro G. Inarritu, who is directing Cruise’s upcoming film.
“Cinema exposes me to different corners of the world. It shows us the difference and the common ground of humanity. In theatre, we all laugh, feel, hope and dream together. That’s the power of this art form and that’s why it’s important to me,” Cruise said.
Cruise began his film career in 1981. He has previously been nominated for Best Actor for Born on the Fourth of July and Jerry Maguire and Best Supporting Actor for Magnolia. He also received an Oscar nomination for his production of Top Gun: Maverick. The Academy’s Board of Governors recognized him for his exceptional contributions to the film community, theater experience and stunt community.
Speaking at the ceremony, Cruise said that cinema has broadened his world and fuelled his imagination. He famously performs his own stunts and has also emphasised supporting the art form in the present day.
“I want people to know that I will always do everything I can to help the art form, support new talent and preserve the power of cinema—hopefully without breaking too many bones,” he said.
It is worth noting that earlier this year, Tom Cruise was also to be recognised at the Kennedy Center Honours by US President Donald Trump, but he declined to accept the honour due to scheduling conflicts.
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