Tom Cruise will receive the British Film Institute’s (BFI) highest honour, the BFI Fellowship, for his contributions to filmmaking, particularly in the UK. The Hollywood star, one of the highest-grossing actors in history, expressed gratitude and praised the British film industry’s creativity.
“I am truly honoured by this acknowledgement,” Cruise said. “I’ve been making films in the UK for over 40 years and have no plans to stop.”
He highlighted the UK’s talented professionals and stunning locations, adding, “I’m grateful for all the BFI has done to support UK filmmaking and this incredible art form we share.”
Cruise has filmed extensively in the UK, with his Mission: Impossible series shot in London, Birmingham and Yorkshire. Other UK-based productions include Legend, Interview With a Vampire, Edge of Tomorrow and Eyes Wide Shut.
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BFI chair Jay Hunt praised Cruise’s impact on British cinema. “Tom has brought so much to the UK as a producer, choosing to make many of his films here. Our crews welcome him and help bring his visions to life.” She credited him for supporting studios, showcasing UK locations and inspiring new talent.
Cruise will participate in an “in conversation” event on 11 May, a day before the fellowship ceremony, launching a month-long retrospective of his films.
The BFI Fellowship is among the highest honours in cinema. Past recipients include David Lean, Elizabeth Taylor, Orson Welles, Martin Scorsese, Tilda Swinton, Spike Lee and Christopher Nolan.
In 2022, Cruise received an honorary Palme d’Or at Cannes. A three-time Golden Globe winner and four-time Oscar nominee, he was most recently honoured by the US Navy in December 2024 for his contributions through Top Gun and Top Gun: Maverick.
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