Dolly Parton to receive honorary Oscar

Legendary country singer Dolly Parton will receive an honorary Oscar ahead of the 2026 Academy Awards, along with Tom Cruise, Debbie Allen and Wynn Thomas.

She will be awarded the Jean Hersholt Humanitarian Award, awarded to those “whose humanitarian efforts have brought credit to the industry by promoting human welfare and contributing to rectifying inequities.” The award’s previous honorees include Oprah Winfrey, Angelina Jolie, and Quincy Jones.

Parton was previously nominated for two Oscars in the Original Song category, for ‘Travellin' Thru’ from the road movie Transamerica and for ‘Nine to Five’ from the comedy 9 to 5.

The Academy President Janet Yang said, “Beloved performer Dolly Parton exemplifies the spirit of the Jean Hersholt Humanitarian Award through her unwavering dedication to charitable efforts.”

Actor Tom Cruise is also set to receive an award for his contributions to cinema, alongside choreographer Debbie Allen and production designer Wynn Thomas.

In a statement, the Academy of Motion Picture Arts and Sciences said: "Tom Cruise's incredible commitment to our filmmaking community, to the theatrical experience, and to the stunts community has inspired us all."