25 Hollywood Legends Who Deserve an Honorary Oscar

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With the Academy of Motion Picture Arts and Sciences set to announce this year's recipients of the Governors Awards in the coming weeks, speculation is swirling, and allies are lobbying for those who have been overlooked.
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Instituted in 1950 for the 23rd Oscars (then called the 'Special Award'), the Honorary Award, given annually by the Board of Governors, is 'to honor extraordinary distinction in lifetime achievement, exceptional contributions to the state of motion picture arts and sciences, or outstanding service to the Academy,' and has often served as a retrospective salute to some of cinema's most impactful yet less-recognized talents.
Over the past few decades, the statuette has served as a way to bestow honors on legends such as actor Samuel L. Jackson (2021), director Lina Wertmüller (2019), and martial arts superstar Jackie Chan (2016).
There are other ways the Academy honors those who make a lasting impact, even outside of the halls of cinema. The Jean Hersholt Humanitarian Award, also an Oscar statuette, is given 'to an individual in the motion picture arts and sciences whose humanitarian efforts have brought credit to the industry.' There's also the Irving G. Thalberg Memorial Award, which is now presented with an Oscar statuette and is awarded to creative producers 'whose body of work reflects a consistently high quality of motion picture production.'
Before the comments roll in asking, 'Clayton, what about Tom Cruise? Keanu Reeves? Thomas Newman?' — here's the simple answer: Some are still too young. At 61, Cruise and Reeves are far from the point where an honorary Oscar feels necessary. And when I believe there's a real chance someone could win a competitive Oscar in the near future, I prefer to let the Academy take its natural course. I'm trying to avoid another Paul Newman situation — he received an honorary Oscar in 1986 after seven nominations, only to win his first acting award the very next year for 'The Color of Money.'
From trailblazing actors to visionary directors and master craftspeople behind the scenes, Variety ranks 25 individuals in the Academy (along with a new idea of paying homage to legends) who should seriously be considered for the Honorary Award statuette.
Honorable mentions: Tariq Anwar (editor); Annette Bening (actor); Steve Buscemi (actor); Tim Curry (actor); Loretta Devine (actor); Richard Gere (actor); James Newton Howard (composer); Harvey Keitel (actor); Marc Shaiman (composer, songwriter); Danny Trejo (actor)
Variety Awards Circuit: Oscars John Leguizamo has built a dynamic, multifaceted career across film, television, theater and comedy, often using his platform to highlight Latinx identity and social issues. From early standouts like 'Carlito's Way' and 'To Wong Foo: Thanks for Everything, Julie Newmar' to voice roles in the 'Ice Age' franchise and dramatic performances in 'The Menu,' Leguizamo brings his entire being to every role. His one-man stage shows, including 'Freak' and 'Latin History for Morons,' have become stunning examples of humor, activism and education. A tireless advocate for representation in Hollywood, Leguizamo has helped pave the way for underrepresented communities.Kurt Russell's career in Hollywood is a testament to his versatility and longevity. From his early days as a child actor with Disney to his transition into adult stardom with cult classics like 'Escape from New York,' 'The Thing,' 'Big Trouble in Little China,' and 'Tombstone,' Russell's journey is unique and enduring. His laid-back, cool, and rugged charm, coupled with his surprising dramatic chops, have made him a standout in action and character-driven roles. His collaborations with renowned directors like John Carpenter, Quentin Tarantino, and Ron Howard have produced undeniable iconic turns. Despite the lack of an Oscar nomination, Russell's legacy as a reliable, magnetic presence makes him a strong candidate for an Honorary prize.John Travolta is a Hollywood icon whose career has spanned multiple cultural eras, from disco stardom in 'Saturday Night Fever' to action renaissance in 'Pulp Fiction' and beyond. He first rose to fame on 'Welcome Back, Kotter' and quickly became a household name, earning Oscar nominations for 'Saturday Night Fever' and 'Pulp Fiction.' With hits like 'Grease,' 'Face/Off' and 'Get Shorty,' Travolta has consistently reinvented himself, demonstrating a remarkable ability to pivot across genres. His charisma, dance skills and accessibility have made him a beloved figure in American pop culture. Though his career has had ups and downs, his impact is seen ('Adele Dazeem!')Mia Farrow's delicate yet resilient performances have graced some of the most influential films of the 1960s through the 1990s, including 'Rosemary's Baby,' 'The Purple Rose of Cairo,' 'Hannah and Her Sisters' and 'Alice.' She brought emotional truth and quiet strength to roles often defined by complexity and psychological nuance. In addition to her film work, Farrow is a noted humanitarian, serving as a UNICEF Goodwill Ambassador and advocating for children's rights worldwide, particularly in war-torn regions. Despite her enduring presence and artistic contributions, she has never received an Academy Award nomination. Whether for her cinematic work or humanitarian efforts, an Honorary Oscar or a Jean Hersholt Humanitarian Award would be a fitting recognition.Sir Ian McKellen is a titan of stage and screen whose performances have spanned Shakespearean drama to fantasy epics. Known to global audiences as Gandalf in 'The Lord of the Rings' and 'The Hobbit' trilogies, as well as Magneto in the 'X-Men' films, McKellen has long balanced commercial success with artistic rigor. His critically acclaimed turns in 'Gods and Monsters' and 'Mr. Holmes' demonstrate his extraordinary range and depth. A two-time Oscar nominee and Tony winner, McKellen has also used his public platform to advocate for LGBTQ+ rights, becoming one of the most prominent openly gay actors in the industry.Michelle Pfeiffer is one of the most respected and versatile actors of her generation, known for balancing glamour with brilliant acting skills. From her breakout in 'Scarface' to acclaimed performances in 'Dangerous Liaisons,' 'The Fabulous Baker Boys' and 'Batman Returns,' Pfeiffer has brought elegance, intelligence and complexity to the screen for over four decades. She's a three-time Oscar nominee and a Golden Globe winner yet remains without a competitive Academy Award. Pfeiffer has often chosen challenging, unconventional roles that highlight her range and refusal to be typecast.Caleb Deschanel is a cinematographer whose work combines technical precision with poetic imagery. A six-time Oscar nominee, his credits include 'The Right Stuff,' 'The Passion of the Christ,' 'The Natural,' 'The Patriot' and 'Fly Away Home.' His cinematography is renowned for its rich textures and expressive lighting, which often enhance the emotional narrative without overwhelming it. Deschanel has also played a key mentoring role within the industry, helping to shape the next generation of directors and cinematographers.
Zooey's Dad totally deserves it.Graham Greene has long been a powerful presence in both Hollywood and Indigenous cinema. Nominated for an Academy Award for his breakthrough role in the best picture winner 'Dances with Wolves,' Greene has consistently portrayed complex, grounded characters that challenge stereotypes about Native people.
His work in films like 'Thunderheart,' 'The Green Mile' and 'Wind River,' as well as numerous television roles, reflects a quiet strength and gravitas that elevates every project he joins.
Greene has also been an outspoken advocate for authentic Indigenous representation in the entertainment industry.
Edward Lachman is a visual poet whose cinematography has elevated some of the most emotionally resonant films of the 21st century. His collaborations with directors like Todd Haynes and Steven Soderbergh on films such as 'Carol,' 'Far from Heaven,' 'Erin Brockovich' and 'The Virgin Suicides' showcase a masterful control of color, light and atmosphere. Lachman's painterly compositions often evoke classic Hollywood while pushing modern boundaries of visual storytelling. A four-time Oscar nominee, most recently for 'Maria' (2024), he has also played a key role in preserving and advancing the art of film through his work in both analog and digital formats.The Academy made a brilliant choice by honoring Jackie Chan in 2016. Let's continue that tradition with another master of martial arts.
Jet Li is not just a martial arts legend, but also a dedicated humanitarian. His career, which spans both Eastern and Western film industries, began with the iconic 'Shaolin Temple' series and the 'Once Upon a Time in China' films in China. He then made a successful transition to Hollywood, leaving his mark with memorable roles in 'Lethal Weapon 4,' 'Romeo Must Die' and 'Hero.' Li's unique ability to bring authentic martial arts choreography to a global audience, infusing his performances with grace and discipline, has earned him a place in film history. Beyond his screen work, he is also a dedicated advocate for disaster relief and children's health, using his influence to make a positive impact through his One Foundation.Brian De Palma's career is a study of bold stylistic innovation and narrative daring. With landmark films such as 'Carrie,' 'Scarface,' 'Blow Out' and 'The Untouchables,' De Palma has established himself as one of the most distinctive voices of the New Hollywood era. Often compared to Hitchcock for his suspense techniques and voyeuristic themes, De Palma carved out a niche defined by operatic violence, long tracking shots, and psychological depth. That type of genius should be rewarded.
Ed Harris is a four-time Oscar nominee whose commanding presence and emotional depth have made him one of the most respected character actors in the film industry. His performances in 'Pollock,' 'The Truman Show,' 'Apollo 13' and 'The Hours' demonstrate a commitment to authenticity in his portrayal of flawed, passionate men wrestling with moral dilemmas. Harris is also a director and stage performer, earning praise for his dedication to craft across mediums. Despite his substantial body of work, he has never won an Oscar. That's just rude.
Philip Glass is one of the most influential composers of the modern era, whose minimalist style has transformed both classical music and film scoring. Known for his hypnotic, emotionally rich soundscapes, Glass has scored critically acclaimed films such as 'Koyaanisqatsi,' 'The Hours,' 'The Truman Show,' and 'Notes on a Scandal.' His music often serves as a narrative force, blurring the line between composition and storytelling. Despite being nominated for three Academy Awards, Glass has yet to receive an Oscar. As he nears 90, we should honor the legacy of a musician who has had such a profound influence.Arnold Schwarzenegger's journey from Austrian bodybuilder to global action star is one of the most improbable and iconic in Hollywood history. With performances in films like 'The Terminator,' 'Predator,' 'Total Recall,' and 'True Lies,' Schwarzenegger became synonymous with blockbuster filmmaking in the '80s and '90s. He also brought surprising humor and warmth to comedies such as 'Twins' and 'Kindergarten Cop.' Off-screen, he served two terms as California's governor, proving his influence extended far beyond cinema. Though never nominated for an Oscar, his impact on action cinema, physical performance and the global film market is undeniable.Let's recognize the master of body horror.
David Cronenberg is a trailblazer of psychological and body horror that makes you squirm in your seat. With cult classics like 'Videodrome,' 'The Fly' and 'Dead Ringers,' as well as critically acclaimed dramas such as 'A History of Violence' and 'Eastern Promises,' Cronenberg has used cinema to explore identity, technology and human transformation. His work is often unsettling but consistently intellectually rigorous. Despite influencing an entire generation of filmmakers, Cronenberg has never been nominated for an Academy Award. Fix that!John Malkovich is one of cinema's most intellectually intriguing and stylistically adventurous actors. Known for his cerebral performances and haunting intensity, Malkovich has delivered unforgettable turns in films such as 'Dangerous Liaisons,' 'Being John Malkovich,' 'In the Line of Fire,' and 'Places in the Heart,' the latter of which earned him one of his two Oscar nominations. With his distinctive voice and enigmatic screen presence, he brings a sense of controlled chaos to every role — equally at home in surreal comedy or gripping drama. Also an acclaimed stage actor and director, Malkovich has long pushed artistic boundaries across disciplines.Laurence Fishburne's powerful voice and magnetic presence have made him a commanding figure in film, television and theater for more than four decades. He became the youngest person ever cast in a Broadway production at age 12 and later delivered iconic performances in 'Boyz n the Hood,' 'What's Love Got to Do with It,' 'The Matrix' trilogy and 'Mystic River.' Fishburne is also a Tony and Emmy winner, a producer, and a champion for African American stories. Despite being nominated once for an Oscar, he has never won — a surprising oversight given the scope and consistency of his career.British filmmaker Mike Leigh is renowned for his improvisational approach to filmmaking, which allows characters and narratives to evolve collaboratively with his actors. The result is deeply human, often heartbreaking cinema, as seen in films like 'Secrets & Lies,' 'Vera Drake,' and 'Another Year.' Leigh's ability to capture everyday struggles with authenticity has made him one of the most respected voices in world cinema. His influence can be felt in the work of countless independent filmmakers. It's time for his unique contribution to be recognized with an Honorary Oscar.Pam Grier broke barriers in the 1970s as the undisputed queen of Blaxploitation cinema, headlining action-driven films like 'Coffy,' 'Foxy Brown' and 'Sheba, Baby' at a time when few Black women were cast as leads — let alone action heroes. Her raw presence, strength and charisma challenged Hollywood norms and inspired a generation of actors and filmmakers. Later, she garnered critical acclaim for her starring role in Quentin Tarantino's 'Jackie Brown,' which revealed the depth of her talent and led to a career resurgence. Grier's cultural impact and trailblazing legacy make her a compelling candidate for a trip to the Governors Awards.There is no 1990s without Jim Carrey.
Carrey redefined comedy in the golden age of my childhood, with wildly kinetic performances in films like 'Ace Ventura: Pet Detective,' 'The Mask' and 'Liar Liar,' but his career has since revealed unexpected depth. Critically lauded for roles in 'The Truman Show,' 'Man on the Moon' and 'Eternal Sunshine of the Spotless Mind,' Carrey showed his range extended far beyond slapstick. His ability to balance absurdity with vulnerability created a new template for comedic leading men. Despite winning Golden Globes and achieving box office dominance, Carrey has never received an Oscar nomination.
Give him his gold.Billy Crystal has worn many hats in Hollywood — comedian, actor, director, writer, and Oscar emcee — but is perhaps most beloved as a nine-time Academy Awards host who brought humor and heart to the ceremony. He also starred in beloved films like 'When Harry Met Sally…,' 'City Slickers' and 'Analyze This,' balancing comedic timing with emotional depth.
Beyond acting, Crystal's contributions as a writer and director, including the touching 'Mr. Saturday Night,' display his multifaceted talent. Although never nominated for an Oscar, he has been a constant presence in American pop culture for over four decades.Ridley Scott is one of Hollywood's undeniable masters of science fiction, with an unadulterated visual flair that permeates each film he helms. The British director has been bringing his vision to our movie screens for over 50 years.
Scott's dances with the Academy have brought him to four ceremonies as a nominee. For best director, he's picked up mentions for 'Thelma & Louise' (1991), 'Gladiator' (2000) and 'Black Hawk Down' (2001), while he also scored one for best picture as a producer for 'The Martian' (2015). He's never won at any ceremony.
But that's not all that makes him worthy of being honored. Scott's 31 movies as a director have grossed more than $1.7 billion domestically, which places him in the top 20 of the highest-grossing directors of all time. Worldwide, his movies have grossed more than $4.3 billion, placing him as the 11th highest earner.
With so many projects on his planned IMDB resume, he's one of those auteurs that will make his last movie, without us knowing it would be his last.With eight Academy Award nominations and no wins, Glenn Close is widely regarded as one of the greatest actors never to have won an Oscar. Her body of work — from 'Fatal Attraction' to 'Dangerous Liaisons' to 'Albert Nobbs' — showcases an astonishing range. Beyond the screen, Close is a passionate advocate for mental health awareness, having founded Bring Change to Mind, a nonprofit organization aimed at ending the stigma surrounding mental illness. Her activism, combined with a decades-spanning career in film, television and theater, makes her a strong candidate for either an Honorary Oscar or the Jean Hersholt Humanitarian Award.
According to sources, Close's name has been thrown around a couple of times to become a recipient. Perhaps her time is coming soon?The suggestion of Marilyn Monroe comes with a new idea for the Academy to institute.
The Oscars should bestow a single Honorary Oscar posthumously to a legend who is no longer with us but has made a lasting impact on cinema.
With Monroe as one of the most iconic figures in Hollywood history, the proposed honor, The Marilyn Monroe Award, would carry significant weight. Decades after she died in 1962, the bombshell, known for classic performances in films like 'Some Like It Hot,' 'The Seven Year Itch,' and 'Gentlemen Prefer Blondes,' Monroe's performances have left an indelible mark on cinema. She combined glamour, vulnerability, and comedic brilliance, and her influence is still felt today. While often underestimated in her lifetime, Monroe's performances have since been reevaluated for their complexity and cultural significance. She was also a trailblazer behind the scenes, co-founding her own production company to gain control over her career — a rare move for a woman in 1950s Hollywood.
Moreover, implementing this new honor would allow more adoration to revisit for people like Cary Grant, Nora Ephron, James Dean, Raul Julia and more.
A posthumous Honorary Oscar would serve as a long-overdue recognition of her influence on both film and celebrity culture, as well as her enduring legacy as a cinematic icon.Indiana Jones. Han Solo. And everything in between. Ford is a masterclass in charisma and cultural impact. From his other iconic roles as Dr. Richard Kimble in 'The Fugitive' to his sole Oscar-nominated performance as John Book in the neo-noir crime thriller 'Witness,' he has headlined some of the most beloved and financially successful films in history.
A recipient of the AFI Lifetime Achievement Award and the Cecil B. DeMille Award, Ford has never won a competitive Oscar. An Honorary Oscar would recognize not only his star power but also his lasting and significant contributions to American cinema across genres and generations, a legacy that will continue to inspire and influence future generations of filmmakers.
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