Tom Cruise was presented with an honorary Academy Award, known as the Governors Award, on Sunday. The ceremony recognized his extensive career and contributions to the film industry.
During his acceptance speech, Cruise stated, "Making films is not what I do, it is who I am." He elaborated on the impact of cinema, noting that it has allowed him to "appreciate and respect differences" and observe "our shared humanity." Cruise emphasized the collective experience of cinema, where audiences "laugh together, feel together, hope together, dream together." He described this as the "power of this art form" and explained its personal significance.
He further added that cinema expanded his worldview as a child, stating, "It opened my eyes. It opened my imagination to the possibility that life could expand far beyond the boundaries that I then perceived in my own life."
Cruise, who made his film debut in 1981, has been nominated for four competitive Academy Awards:
- Best Actor for Born on the Fourth of July
- Best Actor for Jerry Maguire
- Best Supporting Actor for Magnolia
- Producing Top Gun: Maverick
The Board of Governors of the Academy of Motion Picture Arts & Sciences selected Cruise for his "commitment to our filmmaking community, to the theatrical experience, and to the stunts community." The actor is known for performing his own stunts.
Cruise also used his speech to advocate for the art form of cinema amidst competition from the streaming industry and social media. He affirmed his ongoing commitment, stating, "I will always do everything I can to help this art form, to support and champion new voices, to protect what makes cinema powerful." He humorously added, "hopefully without too many more broken bones."
Upon taking the stage, the actor received a standing ovation from attendees, including Steven Spielberg, Leonardo DiCaprio, and Jerry Bruckheimer. Filmmaker Alejandro G. Iñárritu presented the award.
Earlier in the year, Cruise reportedly declined an invitation for recognition from US President Donald Trump for the Kennedy Center honors due to scheduling conflicts.