Tom Cruise doesn’t just do his own stunts, he also sometimes ropes in co-conspirators – willing or not.
In a recent interview, 35-year-old actor Glen Powell opened up about a heart-stopping prank pulled by Tom Cruise during the filming of the blockbuster hit Top Gun: Maverick.
Powell, who plays Lt. Jake ‘Hangman’ Seresin in the film, revealed that Cruise once pretended to lose control of a helicopter they were flying in, plummeting over the city of London.
The incident occurred as the duo was returning to London after reshoots at Pinewood Studios. Powell recounted the moment to GQ with a mix of terror and admiration.
‘Tom goes, “Oh no, oh no,” and he starts dropping the helicopter over London,’ Powell shared.
Powell recalled thinking, ‘Am I about to be the unnamed guy that dies with Tom in a smoking hole in the middle of London?’
Despite the brief scare, Powell’s respect for Cruise only grew. He described the Mission: Impossible star as deeply knowledgeable about every aspect of film production.
‘I got to watch a guy who knew every department. He was able to clearly interface with everyone, be so friendly and respectful, and be able to communicate that vision,’ Powell said.
Cruise, known for his commitment to performing his own stunts, including piloting aircraft, has long been an inspiration to Powell, who is a licensed pilot himself.
However, Powell humbly noted that his own flying experience pales in comparison to Cruise’s exploits. ‘I’ve flown friends cross-country to a number of US cities, but Tom owns a helicopter and flies actual jets.’
The camaraderie between the two actors extended beyond their on-screen roles, blossoming into a genuine friendship rooted in their shared passion for film. Powell described them as ‘kindred spirits,’ highlighting the bond they developed during the intense production of the film.
Got a story?
If you’ve got a celebrity story, video or pictures get in touch with the Metro.co.uk entertainment team by emailing us celebtips@metro.co.uk, calling 020 3615 2145 or by visiting our Submit Stuff page – we’d love to hear from you.
MORE : There’s one major thing missing from most Hollywood blockbusters
MORE : Hollywood star almost went broke waiting for $1,500,000,000 blockbuster film release
MORE : Inside Tom Cruise’s strained relationship with daughter Suri as she ditches his name