The Academy of Motion Picture Arts and Sciences has announced Honorary Oscars for actress Glenn Close, director Ridley Scott, and animator Floyd Norman. Producers Christine Vachon and Pamela Koffler will receive the Irving G. Thalberg Memorial Award. The Academy's Board of Governors voted to bestow these recognitions on the five honorees.
Close will finally receive an Oscar after eight nominations throughout her career. She has been recognized for roles in Fatal Attraction, Dangerous Liaisons, and Hillbilly Elegy. The Academy described her as an actor with an "unparalleled emotional range" who has "brought to life some of the most complex characters in cinema."
Scott, who has directed influential films across science fiction and historical drama, has received four Oscar nominations. His acclaimed work includes Thelma & Louise and Gladiator. The Academy called him "a true visionary whose decades-long legacy has left an immeasurable impact on global cinema and culture."
Norman, now 90 years old, made history as Disney's first Black animator. His uncredited work appeared in early Disney classics including The Jungle Book and Sleeping Beauty, while later credited roles included Monsters Inc and Alvin and the Chipmunks. The Academy praised him as someone who has "inspired generations of artists over his remarkable career."
Vachon and Koffler, who founded Killer Films, have championed independent cinema for decades. They recently earned their first Oscar nomination for producing the romantic drama Past Lives. Their production company credits also include Boys Don't Cry, May December, and Materialists.
The Honorary Oscar recognizes "extraordinary distinction in lifetime achievement, exceptional contributions to the state of motion picture arts and sciences in any discipline, or for outstanding service to the Academy." This award has been presented by the Academy since 1929 and remains separate from the main Oscar telecast.
The ceremony will take place on November 15. Recipients join a prestigious group of honorees celebrated for their career achievements and contributions to the motion picture industry. Last year's recipients included Tom Cruise and Dolly Parton.
Close's next film role will appear in The Hunger Games: Sunrise on the Reaping later this year. Scott's post-apocalyptic thriller The Dog Stars is scheduled for release in August.