Debbie Allen, a choreographer, director and actress known for movies “Fame,” “A Jazzman’s Blues,” Amistad,” “The Six Triple Eight” and many more received an Honorary Oscar at the 2025 Governors Awards this weekend.
“Movies was a way in for me,” shared an emotional Allen whose decades-long career includes choreographing 7 Oscar ceremonies. “Everything I have done and continue to do I have not done alone. I’ve had masters and mentors that have trained me, encouraged me, criticized me, given me opportunity, uplifted me and helped me become the Debbie Allen you are celebrating tonight.”
The honorary award was presented to Debbie Allen by Cynthia Erivo, who called Allen her aunty. “She is a champion of creativity and a fierce protector of artists and her impact on the world of film is extraordinary,” shared Erivo.
Held at the Ray Dolby Ballroom in Hollywood by the Board of Governors of the Academy of Motion Picture Arts and Sciences, Tom Cruise, production designer Wynn Thomas and Dolly Parton also received honorary Oscars at the 16th Annual Governors Awards
The awards, which are all Oscar statuettes, were voted on by the Academy’s Board of Governors last June.
By Samantha Ofole-Prince / photos courtesy of A.M.P.A.S
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