The 53rd edition of the Saturn Awards return to the Universal Hilton on Los Angeles on March 8th. It will be hosted once again by Joel McHale. Now The Academy of Science Fiction, Fantasy, and Horror Films have announced their special honors.

VISIONARY AWARD

These will include a “Visionary Award” for producer, director, and Academy Award-winning writer Christopher McQuarrie, presented by Tom Cruise. This award recognizes filmmakers whose work expands the language of cinema. McQuarrie’s work reflects a relentless devotion to craft, clarity, and theatrical-scale storytelling.

GEORGE PAL MEMORIAL AWARD

The Saturn Awards have also announced that the “George Pal Memorial Award” will be presented to “Aliens” in celebration of its 40th Anniversary. Director James Cameron and producer Gale Anne Hurd accepting the award. Director Guillermo Del Toro will present the award to the creative team with cast members including Carrie Henn, Michael Biehn, Ricco Ross, Jenette Goldstein, Mark Rolston, and Cynthia Scott in attendance to join the tribute. Matt Winston will attend and accept on behalf of his father, Academy Award-winning Stan Winston, the film’s Special Effects Makeup Creator and Creature Effects Supervisor, whose groundbreaking work remains central to the film’s enduring legacy.

SATURN HALL OF FAME AWARD

Other special honors include the “Saturn Hall of Fame Award” that will be presented to “Star Trek”. As Gene Roddenberry’s creation remains one of entertainment’s most enduring, future-forward gifts. William Shatner, Alex Kurtzman, and Eugene “Rod” Roddenberry are confirmed to participate in the celebration.

LANCE REDDICK LEGACY AWARD

The “Lance Reddick Legacy Award” that will be presented to Titus Welliver. Created to honor the late Lance Reddick’s extraordinary spirit – talent matched by character – this award celebrates performers who serve as true goodwill ambassadors in the industry. Welliver, who starred alongside Reddick in Bosch and was a close friend, also helped establish this honor at the 51st Saturn Awards by presenting the inaugural Lance Reddick Legacy Award to Keanu Reeves, making this recognition especially meaningful and full circle.

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ABOUT THE SATURN AWARDS

Founded in 1972 by film historian Dr. Donald A. Reed, The Academy of Science Fiction, Fantasy and Horror Films is a non-profit organization. Dedicated to honoring excellence in genre entertainment. It’s supported by hundreds of genre enthusiasts and industry professionals. The Academy is currently led by President Robert Holguin, with Saturn Awards leadership from Bradley Marcus and Kevin Marcus.