Tom Cruise reportedly turned down the invitation to receive the Kennedy Center Honor from the Trump Administration.
This week, US President Donald Trump announced the honorees for the Kennedy Center Honors this year, which include the likes of movie star Sylvester Stallone, rock band icon KISS, and "I Will Survive" singer Gloria Gaynor. The news has received divisive reactions, especially with Trump also announcing that he will be hosting the ceremony himself.
Did Tom Cruise Decline to Receive a Kennedy Center Honor?
According to The Washington Post, Cruise declined the invitation by the Trump Administration to be one of the honorees of this year's Kennedy Center Honors.
"Scheduling conflict" was cited as the reason why he turned down the offer. There is no word yet on whether he will be invited again next year.
So far, Cruise has not commented on the reports of his alleged decline of the Kennedy Center Honor invitation.
While Cruise is definitely qualified for the honor, fans online have commented that he dodged a bullet, and his acceptance of the offer might have created controversy due to the political scrutiny and polarizing discourse that could happen.
Stallone, who is known to be a Trump supporter, is the only movie star who is part of the Kennedy Center Honorees this year.
Is Tom Cruise Finally Getting an Honorary Oscar?
While Cruise declined to receive a Kennedy Center Honor, he is set to receive an Honorary Oscar later this year, which will mark the first time in his career that he will be a recipient of the prestigious award.
He will be awarded alongside legendary choreographer and performer Debbie Allen, production designer Wynn Thomas, and music icon Dolly Parton, who will be the recipient of the Jean Hersholt Humanitarian Award.
According to the announcement, Cruise was chosen to be honored due to being a "committed advocate of the theatrical experience, and he helped to usher the industry through a challenging time during the COVID-19 pandemic."
He was also commended for "showcasing a deep commitment to his craft, including performing all of his own stunts."
Keep it locked on Epicstream, your go-to site for film, TV, and celebrity coverage!