Tom Cruise's Olympics Closing Ceremony Stunt Wasn't Applauded by Everyone on Social Media

Tom Cruise gave the Closing Ceremony at the Paris Olympics a very Hollywood ending when he rappelled down from the top of Stade de France and into the crowd of athletes. It seemed like a picture-perfect ending to the European games as they handed it off to Los Angeles, that is sure to add a touch of Hollywood sparkle in 2028. However, not everyone was pleased with the A-list star’s presence.

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Social media jumped into the conversation with mentions of Cruise’s controversial ties to Scientology , which is considered a cult in France. “How does Tom Cruise manage to be held in highest public esteem when he is a leading player in Scientology?!?! I don’t get it at all. Just remarkable,” one user on X questioned the 62-year-old star’s presence at the event. Another account added, “I love how America just acts like Tom Cruise isn’t like the icon of Scientology.” Then, of course, there are his issues with his ex-wives , Nicole Kidman and Katie Holmes.

The social media critic pointed out , “I’m sorry. Tom Cruise stole his adopted children from Nichole Kidman because she didn’t want anything to do with Scientology and his 2nd wife had to plan an escape from the marriage to protect her child from Scientology. THIS is who we chose to represent LA 2028 Olympics?” Even though they forgot Cruise’s first wife, Mimi Rogers, whom he did not have a family with, the point is well taken.

Still, Cruise was a huge presence during the two weeks of the Paris Games. He was seen at gymnastics events and taking selfies with fans — Cruise was doing what he does best, being a movie star. The tousle of the hair, the hop on the motorcycle with the Olympics flag — that’s all Cruise . And that moment became about him, not the athletes who spent the last two weeks competing their hearts out on the field or in the swimming pool. They didn’t seem to mind as they hugged him, grabbed video, and screamed at the mere sight of him.

And the warning was there all along. Le Parisien noted that the Church of Scientology was “more visible than ever” at the games. They built a new headquarters in April very close to the State de France and “deployed a major communication campaign during the Olympics.” The move makes Cruise’s presence seem a little more sinister because, as TMZ reported, the Closing Ceremony stunt was his idea. But we have to ask: Was it really the Church of Scientology’s idea? It makes you wonder.

Before you go, click here to see celebrities who have left the Church of Scientology.