Duo Penélope Cruz and Bruce Springsteen set to receive recognition from the Academy Museum
The Academy Museum is set to host its annual fundraising gala on October 18, 2025, an event that promises to be a star-studded celebration of cinema and storytelling. This year, the museum will honour four exceptional individuals for their outstanding contributions to film and related arts.
Penélope Cruz, an Oscar-winning actress, will receive the Icon Award. Recognised for her influential career in cinema, Cruz has left an indelible mark on the industry with her extensive body of work. The Spanish actress will receive her award at the gala, marking a significant milestone in her illustrious career.
Walter Salles, a renowned director, will also be in attendance to receive the Luminaria Award. Salles' significant achievements in filmmaking have earned him this prestigious honour. His films have not only captivated audiences but have also expanded the boundaries of storytelling.
Bruce Springsteen, the legendary rock musician, will make history as the inaugural recipient of the Legacy Award. This award honours an artist whose body of work has inspired generations of storytellers and profoundly influenced culture. Springsteen's impact extends beyond music, as his biopic *Deliver Me from Nowhere* is set to release shortly after the event, further cementing his enduring legacy. Notably, Springsteen will also perform live at the gala, promising an unforgettable evening.
Bowen Yang, an actor and comedian known for his work on "Saturday Night Live," will receive the Vantage Award. This recognition honours emerging talent, and Yang's unique contributions and rising influence in entertainment make him a fitting recipient.
These honourees were chosen for their outstanding influence and accomplishments in film and related arts, reflecting the Academy Museum’s mission to celebrate and preserve cinema and storytelling across disciplines.
In addition to the award ceremony, the public activities include screenings, programs for primary and secondary school students, and efforts to expand access for both the general public and the local Los Angeles community.
The Academy Museum's annual fundraising gala aims to support museum exhibitions, educational initiatives, and public activities. Last year's gala raised over $11 million, according to the museum. This year's gala will be co-chaired by Jon M. Chu, rapper Common, Viola Davis and Julius Tennon, Robert Downey Jr. and Susan Downey, Jennifer Hudson, and Alejandro Ramírez Magaña.
Amy Homma, the Academy Museum's director and president, stated, "We are honoured to recognise Penélope Cruz, Walter Salles, Bruce Springsteen, and Bowen Yang. Their careers have had a significant global impact, expanded creative possibilities in film, inspired generations, and recognised emerging talent."
The awards celebrate artists whose careers have had a significant global impact, expanded creative possibilities in film, inspired generations, and recognised emerging talent. The 2025 Academy Museum gala promises to be a night to remember, celebrating the legacy and future of storytelling in film.
Movies-and-tv and entertainment will be celebrated at the Star-studded 2025 Academy Museum gala, as the event honors four exceptional individuals for their outstanding contributions in these fields. Penélope Cruz, Walter Salles, Bruce Springsteen, and Bowen Yang are being recognized for their significant global impact, expanding creative possibilities, and inspiring generations in the world of cinema and related arts.
