Debbie Allen made Hollywood history at the 16th Annual Governors Awards, taking home her very first Oscar after more than five decades of shaping culture, creativity, and community, Essence reports. The legendary dancer, director, producer, and choreographer was honored with an Honorary Award at the Ray Dolby Ballroom on November 16, closing out the night as one of the most celebrated icons in the room.

But before the show even started, Allen reminded everyone exactly why she is beloved across generations. At a pre-ceremony celebration hosted by the Debbie Allen Dance Academy, she hit the dance floor with Tom Cruise, who was also being honored. The two moved effortlessly to classics spun by DJ D-Nice as sister Phylicia Rashad and fellow icon Jenifer Lewis cheered them on. The moment went viral instantly, flooding timelines with joy and reminding viewers that Allen has always been the blueprint.

Inside the ceremony, Cynthia Erivo presented Allen with her Honorary Oscar, delivering heartfelt praise for her decades of dedication. When Allen took the stage, she radiated elegance and gratitude, while keeping the humor that has always made her so magnetic. “I’m definitely taking him to work with me and keeping him close—not for what I’ve done, but for what I have yet to do.”

For anyone who has followed her career, this honor feels overdue. Allen first captivated the world 43 years ago as Lydia Grant on Fame, then cemented her status as a powerhouse by directing and producing the Cosby Show spin-off, A Different World. She later helped transform Grey’s Anatomy into the global phenomenon it is today. Add to that her Emmy wins, Golden Globe, seven turns choreographing the Oscars, and the generations of dancers she has trained and mentored, and it becomes clear why the industry showed up in full force to celebrate her.

And show up they did. Queen Latifah, Michael B. Jordan, Tessa Thompson, Dwayne Johnson, Andra Day, Damson Idris, Jurnee Smollett, Regina Hall, Wunmi Mosaku, Zinzi Coogler, Ryan Coogler, and more all graced the carpet. Their presence turned the evening into a vibrant celebration of Black excellence and Hollywood royalty.

The ceremony also honored other giants, including production designer Wynn Thomas, who received an Honorary Award for helping define the look of classics such as Do the Right Thing and Malcolm X. Dolly Parton, although absent due to health concerns, was also awarded the Jean Hersholt Humanitarian Award for her extensive philanthropic contributions.

But the night belonged to Allen. Her first Oscar is not just an award; it is a moment that reflects a legacy that reshaped Hollywood, expanded representation, and opened doors for artists everywhere. For over 50 years, she has pushed storytelling forward. And if her viral dance moment is any indication, she has no intention of slowing down.

Cover photo: Debbie Allen Finally Takes Home Her First Oscar, & the Celebration Was Pure Joy/Photo credit: The Academy/Instagram