Tom Cruise will be honored with the American Film Institute’s Life Achievement Award at a gala event scheduled for April 24, 2024, in Los Angeles. The ceremony will take place at the Dolby Theatre, where Cruise will join a distinguished group of filmmakers and actors recognized for their enduring contributions to the motion picture industry.

The announcement was made on Wednesday by the AFI’s board of trustees. Kathleen Kennedy, chair of the board, described Cruise as a "global icon," highlighting his dedication to acting and producing and his belief in the power of films to unite audiences.

Cruise, 64, has maintained a prolific career spanning more than 40 years, with notable roles in films such as “Risky Business,” “A Few Good Men,” “Jerry Maguire,” “Minority Report,” and the “Mission: Impossible” franchise. Throughout his career, he has earned three Academy Award nominations for acting: two for Best Actor in “Born on the Fourth of July” and “Jerry Maguire,” and one for Best Supporting Actor in “Magnolia.” Additionally, he was nominated as a producer for “Top Gun: Maverick” when the film received a Best Picture nod.

Last year, Cruise received an honorary Oscar at the Governors Awards presented by the Academy of Motion Picture Arts and Sciences, further recognizing his impact on the industry.

The AFI Life Achievement Award, established in 1973, honors individuals whose work has significantly advanced the art of film and demonstrated lasting influence. Previous recipients include luminaries such as John Ford, Bette Davis, Sidney Poitier, Steven Spielberg, Denzel Washington, Nicole Kidman, and most recently Eddie Murphy earlier this year.

Proceeds from the gala tribute will support AFI’s educational programs and arts initiatives, continuing the institute’s mission to preserve and promote film culture.