Hollywood, Nov 18 (V7N) — Hollywood icon Tom Cruise has been presented with an Honorary Oscar at the Academy’s Governors Awards, recognizing his decades-long contribution to global cinema. The award was handed to him by acclaimed filmmaker Alejandro G. Iñárritu during the prestigious ceremony on Saturday night.

Alongside Cruise, three other distinguished personalities—choreographer and actress Debbie Allen, production designer Win Thomas, and celebrated musician and human rights activist Dolly Parton—also received Honorary Oscars for their exceptional influence on the entertainment industry.

While accepting the honor, the 63-year-old Cruise became emotional as he reflected on his extraordinary journey and the powerful bond he has built with audiences worldwide. He expressed deep gratitude to the countless artists and technicians who work tirelessly both on and off screen to bring stories to life.

“Cinema has taken me around the world,” Cruise said. “It has taught me to respect different cultures and differences. No matter where we come from, we laugh, cry, and hope together in the theater. That is the power of cinema. Making movies is not just my profession, it’s my identity.”

Cruise also reminisced about his childhood, recalling how films ignited his imagination and inspired his lifelong passion for storytelling.

“When the lights went down and the projector lit up the screen, it felt like another world was opening before me,” he said. “That light awakened my curiosity, my hunger for adventure, my desire to understand humanity, and my wish to tell stories. I’ve been following that light ever since.”

The Honorary Oscar is one of the Academy’s highest recognitions, awarded to individuals whose careers have significantly shaped the art and evolution of cinema, extending beyond competitive categories and enriching film history.

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