Cruise & Parton. Sounds like an Alabama law firm. Instead, it is the names of two recipients of honors at the upcoming Academy Awards. Alongside Tom Cruise, choreographer/actor Debbie Allen, and production designer Wynn Thomas will all receive Honorary Oscars for their lifelong contributions to the movie industry.
According to the report in Variety, they will be joined by Dolly Parton. She will be recognised by the Jean Hersholt Humanitarian Award for her work as a philanthropist. The presentation will be at the 16th annual Governors Awards on November 16th.
Janet Yang, Academy President, says in a statement:
The Academy’s Board of Governors is honored to recognize these brilliant artists. Debbie Allen is a trailblazing choreographer and actor, whose work has captivated generations and crossed genres. Tom Cruise’s incredible commitment to our filmmaking community, to the theatrical experience, and to the stunts community has inspired us all.
Beloved performer Dolly Parton exemplifies the spirit of the Jean Hersholt Humanitarian Award through her unwavering dedication to charitable efforts. And production designer Wynn Thomas has brought some of the most enduring films to life through a visionary eye and mastery of his craft.”
The Governors Awards will not be televised, and are separate from the main Oscars ceremony. That ceremony, for the 98th Oscars, will be its usual dour festival of backslapping boredom, set to lame scripted jokes and contrived musical numbers, on March 16th 2026 at the Dolby Theater in Los Angeles.
