Quincy Jones, Richard Curtis, Juliet Taylor, and ‘Bond’ producers to receive honorary Oscars

The Academy of Motion Picture Arts and Sciences has announced that Quincy Jones, Richard Curtis, Juliet Taylor, and the James Bond production duo, Michael G. Wilson and Barbara Broccoli, will be honored with prestigious awards at this year's Governors Awards. The ceremony, scheduled for November 17 in the Ray Dolby Ballroom, will celebrate the remarkable contributions these individuals have made to the film industry.

Quincy Jones, a towering figure in the music and film industries, will receive an honorary Oscar in recognition of his extensive contributions to cinema. Over a career spanning 55 years, Jones has been nominated for seven Academy Awards in various categories, including best original score, best song, and even best picture. Despite never having won a competitive Oscar, his influence on films such as ‘In Cold Blood,’ ‘The Wiz,’ and ‘The Color Purple' is undeniable. This honorary award acknowledges his profound impact on the art of film.


Further, Juliet Taylor, a renowned casting director, will be honored with an honorary Oscar. Taylor’s distinguished career features casting for legendary films such as 'Taxi Driver,' 'Annie Hall,' 'Sleepless in Seattle,' and 'Schindler’s List.' Her exceptional talent in identifying and selecting actors has profoundly influenced the film industry, underscoring the essential role casting directors play. The Academy's recognition of Taylor emphasizes her significant contributions to cinema.

Next is Richard Curtis, the filmmaker behind beloved movies such as 'Notting Hill' and 'Love Actually,' will be awarded the Jean Hersholt Humanitarian Award for his extensive charitable efforts. Curtis is a co-founder of Comic Relief UK and USA, organizations that have raised over $2 billion for various causes over the past 40 years. His commitment to using his platform for humanitarian purposes exemplifies the spirit of the Hersholt Award, which Quincy Jones previously received in 1994.

Moving ahead, The Irving G. Thalberg Memorial Award, given for excellence in producing, will be presented to Michael G. Wilson and Barbara Broccoli of EON Productions. They have carried on the legacy of the James Bond franchise, producing hit films such as 'Casino Royale,' 'Skyfall,' and 'No Time To Die.' Their dedication to maintaining the quality and success of the 007 series cements their status as leading figures in the film industry. This award follows in the footsteps of Broccoli’s father, Albert 'Cubby' Broccoli, who received the Thalberg Award in 1981.

According to AP, Academy President Janet Yang praised the honorees, stating, “The recipients of this year’s Governors Awards have set the bar incredibly high across their remarkable careers, and the Academy’s Board of Governors is thrilled to recognize them with Oscars. Their profound love of cinema and indelible contribution to our art form make these five individuals truly deserving of these honors.”