In a time when it seems like the big-name stars of Hollywood are fading away, Tom Cruise is standing out alone at the top. He’s been one of the movie industry’s biggest names for a long time, starring in popular movies like the Mission: Impossible series. But Cruise isn’t just known for his acting skills. He’s also famous for his wild behavior off-screen, like the time he yelled at crew members on the set of Mission Impossible 7 for not following Covid-19 safety rules. This angry outburst made big news when it got out to the public, but it’s just one of many weird and shocking things Cruise has done over the years.
Covid Rant
In December 2020, Cruise made headlines for angrily scolding the crew of Mission Impossible 7 for not following Covid-19 safety rules. Some fans supported his stance, while others criticized his aggressive tone and language.
Marvel Near-Miss
In the 1990s, Cruise considered playing Iron Man when the rights were with 20th Century Fox. However, the studio couldn’t afford his fee, so they opted for Robert Downey Jr. instead. Cruise later praised Downey Jr.’s portrayal of the character as perfect for him.
Stunt gone wrong
Cruise is famous for doing his own stunts in movies, especially in the Mission: Impossible series. But one stunt in Mission: Impossible Fallout ended badly for him. While jumping between rooftops, Cruise broke his ankle. He even showed the clip of the accident on The Graham Norton show.
Dancing Debt
Despite not being known for his dancing, Tom Cruise once took salsa lessons from Shirley Ballas for a special occasion with his then-wife Nicole Kidman. Ballas humorously revealed that Cruise still owed her money for the lessons during a TV appearance.
The hysterical anecdote
During an interview on David Letterman’s show, Cruise couldn’t stop laughing while trying to tell a story about his movie. The laughter became contagious, with Letterman joining in.
Scientology video
Cruise’s involvement with the Church of Scientology is well-known. A promotional video featuring Cruise talking about Scientology leaked in 2008. His intense delivery left many fans puzzled.
Skyscraper Climb
In “Mission: Impossible — Ghost Protocol,” Tom Cruise performed one of his most daring stunts by scaling the Burj Khalifa building in Dubai, the tallest in the world. Coordinated by professionals, this feat showcased Cruise’s skill as a top-notch stunt performer.
The 60 Minutes Australia interview
Cruise’s appearance on 60 Minutes Australia got uncomfortable when the interviewer asked about his ex-wife Nicole Kidman. Cruise warned the interviewer to watch his manners.
Read More: ‘Even as a Hollywood A-lister, Tom Cruise gives me the creeps’
The Matt Lauer interview
During an interview on the Today Show in 2005, Cruise clashed with Matt Lauer. Cruise criticized the use of anti-depressants and psychiatry, calling it a “pseudo-science.”
Near-Death Stunt
Tom Cruise’s commitment to doing his own stunts nearly cost him his life in “The Last Samurai.” During a swordfight scene, a mishap almost caused serious injury. Thankfully, a small misstep spared him from a potentially fatal accident.
Accepting the Scientology award
In 2004, Cruise received an award from the Church of Scientology. His acceptance speech, talking to a painting of L Ron Hubbard, was leaked online years later, causing amusement among non-Scientologist fans.
The water prank
In 2005, during a red-carpet interview with Channel 4, Cruise was pranked when he got sprayed with water. He called the interviewer rude and a jerk.
Merchandise Ban
Tom Cruise is famously strict about the use of his image in his merchandise. While Disney animators often base characters on real people, Cruise has never allowed his likeness to be used for toys or other products since 1987. Even though he inspired the boldness of Disney’s “Aladdin,” he’s never voiced an animated character.
MTV awards
Tom Cruise played a strange role in Tropic Thunder in 2008. He reprised the character for a weird dance at the 2010 MTV Awards.
Read More: Tom Cruise’s Adoptive Son Connor Quit Hollywood to Live Quiet, Peaceful Life As Fisherman
Sources
- “Tom Cruise’s 10 most controversial moments” Independent. Louis Chilton. December 17, 2020.
- “Strange Things Everyone Ignores About Tom Cruise” The List. Roger Froilan. March 8, 2020.