Tom Cruise’s Co-Star Defends Him After Years-Old Comment Resurfaces!

Fans of Ted Lasso star Hannah Waddingham were taken by surprise this week when she made a brief but noticeable appearance in the newly released trailer for Mission: Impossible The Final Reckoning. As the teaser for the final installment of the iconic action series dropped, Waddingham’s cameo sparked immediate excitement. What added to the intrigue was the fact that her involvement in the film had been hinted at months earlier in a December 2023 interview, catching many fans off guard.

A Surprise Cameo in Mission Impossible

The trailer for Mission: Impossible The Final Reckoning, slated for release in May 2025, gave viewers a sneak peek at the conclusion of the high-stakes franchise. Among the action-packed scenes, a fleeting appearance from Waddingham raised eyebrows. While many were unaware of her role in the film, the moment took on new significance after a December interview where Waddingham revealed details about working alongside Tom Cruise, teasing their collaboration months before the trailer’s release.

Waddingham’s December Interview Praise for Tom Cruise

In a Christmas Day 2023 appearance on James Martin’s Saturday Morning, Waddingham shared some glowing praise for Tom Cruise, with whom she had spent “five intense days” on the USS George HW Bush. The actress went on to describe Cruise as “one of the loveliest and encouraging, positive and inspiring human beings I have ever met.” She was particularly defensive of the actor, stating, “I have a real problem with anybody that goes at him now,” and added, “Isn’t he gorgeous? I have no time for anyone saying anything about him.” Her comments were widely discussed at the time, and now, with her cameo in Mission: Impossible, they’ve resurfaced, rekindling interest in her thoughts on the actor.

Tom Cruise’s Controversial Reputation

While Cruise has enjoyed an illustrious career, with legendary roles in films like Minority Report, Jerry Maguire, and Top Gun: Maverick, his off-screen life has often attracted attention for less positive reasons. Most notably, his involvement with the Church of Scientology has led to significant public scrutiny. From his infamous couch-jumping moment on Oprah in 2005 to his heated debates about psychiatry with Today host Matt Lauer, Cruise’s personal beliefs and actions have sometimes overshadowed his acting career.

Scientology Controversies Resurface

Much of the controversy surrounding Cruise is tied to his association with Scientology, particularly following the release of a 2008 video in which he passionately defended the religion. This issue was revived during the 2023 Golden Globe Awards when host Jerrod Carmichael made a pointed joke about Cruise returning his Golden Globe awards. The joke, which referenced the “safe return of Shelly Miscavige,” sparked renewed conversation about the church, with some questioning the fate of Miscavige, the wife of Scientology leader David Miscavige, who has been the subject of controversy and speculation regarding her whereabouts.

The Impact of Waddingham’s Support

Waddingham’s public defense of Tom Cruise, especially amid ongoing controversies, adds an interesting layer to the public’s perception of both stars. Her enthusiastic endorsement of Cruise’s character contrasts with the often negative media narrative surrounding him. As the Mission: Impossible franchise nears its conclusion, Waddingham’s praise for the actor has brought fresh attention to their professional relationship, making fans eager to see her full role in the upcoming film.

Looking Ahead

With Mission: Impossible The Final Reckoning set to hit theaters in May 2025, fans can expect even more excitement as Waddingham’s role in the film unfolds. As her past praise for Cruise resurfaces, it adds a new dimension to the conversation about both their careers, sparking further interest in their collaboration. Meanwhile, the ongoing debate about Cruise’s personal life and his ties to Scientology will likely continue to be a subject of discussion as the final chapter of the Mission: Impossible saga approaches.