Tom Cruise was awarded an Honorary Oscar on November 16. During the event, he gave a speech that seemed to encapsulate his life's mission. The award was presented to him by Alejandro G. Iñárritu, who is directing Cruise in an untitled film scheduled for release in October 2026.
As reported by Variety, he expressed gratitude to the countless individuals who enable the creation of films, including the crews, artists, writers, and the team who operate behind the scenes yet uphold the industry. He then transitioned to discussing why he has remained in this field for four decades.
Tom Cruise becomes tearful
He expressed, "Cinema transports me globally. It enables me to value and honor diversity. It also reveals our common humanity, highlighting our similarities in numerous ways. Regardless of our origins, in that theater, we share laughter, emotions, and aspirations, which is the essence of this art form. This is why it holds significance, why it is important to me. Thus, filmmaking is not just my profession; it defines my identity," he elaborated.
Tom Cruise shares how the enthusiasm from his childhood has remained strong.
Cruise also reflected on the moment he first developed a passion for films. "My affection for cinema started when I was very young, as far back as I can recall," he mentioned. He then recounted the memory he often revisits - being a child in a dimly lit theater, observing a solitary beam of light slicing through the air and transforming into a universe larger than anything he had ever known.
He also discussed how that light "sparked my imagination, making me realize that life could extend well beyond the limits I previously saw in my own existence." As he expressed it, he has been pursuing that beam ever since.
Cruise, who had previously received four Oscar nominations for his roles in Born on the Fourth of July, Jerry Maguire, Magnolia, and as a producer for Top Gun: Maverick, was finally recognized with an Honorary Oscar, placing him among the legendary figures he admired in his youth.
The evening extended past Cruise. Cynthia Erivo presented Debbie Allen with a personal award. Wynn Thomas was acknowledged for his lifetime achievements in production design. Dolly Parton received the Jean Hersholt Humanitarian Award and sent a prerecorded message because of health issues.
The event was transformed into a prelude to awards season with the presence of special guests such as Jennifer Lawrence, Leonardo DiCaprio, Sydney Sweeney, Dwayne Johnson, Emma Stone, and many others.