Most Talked-About Controversies Linked to Tom Cruise

Controversies are a part of history. Explore the biggest scandals linked to Tom Cruise.

Tom Cruise is a highly successful American actor and producer, recognized as a Hollywood icon. He's received numerous awards, including an Honorary Palme d'Or and three Golden Globe Awards, with multiple Academy Award nominations. Cruise's films have collectively earned over $12 billion globally, establishing him as one of the highest-grossing and highest-paid actors in the world. He is considered one of Hollywood's most bankable stars.

Sections (5)

Full Timeline Early Life & Education Career & Achievements Success & Recognition Controversies & Scandals

1990: Involvement in Scientology Leaked

In 1990, Tom Cruise's involvement in Scientology was leaked by the tabloid Star.

1994: Starring in Interview with the Vampire

In 1994, Tom Cruise starred in 'Interview with the Vampire', which initially drew criticism from author Anne Rice but later received her praise.

May 2001: Lawsuit Against Chad Slater

In May 2001, Tom Cruise filed a lawsuit against gay porn actor Chad Slater for claiming they had an affair. Cruise strongly denied the claim.

January 2003: Judge Rules Against Chad Slater

In January 2003, a Los Angeles judge ruled against Chad Slater after he admitted his claims of having an affair with Tom Cruise were false.

June 24, 2005: Argument on Today Show

On June 24, 2005, Tom Cruise had a heated argument with Matt Lauer on NBC's Today show regarding Cruise's views on psychiatry.

2005: Lobbying for Scientology in Europe

In 2005, the Council of Paris revealed that Tom Cruise had lobbied French Interior Minister Nicolas Sarkozy and Senate President Jean-Claude Gaudin to recognize Scientology as a religion in Europe.

August 2006: Apology to Brooke Shields

In late August 2006, Tom Cruise apologized in person to Brooke Shields for his comments about her use of antidepressants.

January 15, 2008: Scientology Video Posted on YouTube

On January 15, 2008, a video featuring an interview with Tom Cruise discussing his beliefs about Scientology was posted on YouTube by Project Chanology.

October 2012: Defamation Lawsuit

In October 2012, Tom Cruise filed a lawsuit against In Touch and Life & Style magazines for defamation after they claimed he had "abandoned" his daughter.

May 2021: Protest Against HFPA

In May 2021, Tom Cruise protested against the Hollywood Foreign Press Association (HFPA) by returning his three Golden Globe Awards due to controversy surrounding the HFPA's lack of diversity and ethical concerns.