Tom Cruise recently spoke about his ex-wife Nicole Kidman, praising her acting skills while reflecting on their 1999 film Eyes Wide Shut. The Mission: Impossible star’s rare comments come as rumors swirl about his relationship with actress Ana de Armas. The two have been spotted together multiple times in London, sparking speculation about a possible romance. Cruise’s remarks about Kidman highlight their professional respect, despite their divorce over two decades ago. Here’s what we know about his comments and the ongoing rumors.
Cruise shared his thoughts in an interview with Sight and Sound magazine, published by the British Film Institute. He discussed working with director Stanley Kubrick on Eyes Wide Shut, a film where he and Kidman played a married couple. Cruise revealed he suggested Kidman for the role of Alice Harford.
“Then it was basically he and I getting to know each other. And when we were doing that, I suggested Nicole play the role [of Alice]. Because obviously she’s a great actress.”
The film, known for its intense and provocative themes, was a unique experience for both actors.
Cruise and Kidman were married from 1990 to 2001, adopting two children, Isabella and Connor, during their time together. They also starred in Days of Thunder (1990) and Far and Away (1992). Their divorce in 2001 shocked fans, with the couple citing career demands as a factor. Kidman later described the split as difficult but has since found happiness with Keith Urban, marrying him in 2006. Cruise went on to marry Katie Holmes, with whom he shares daughter Suri, before their 2012 divorce.
The Sight and Sound interview took place as Cruise prepares to receive a distinguished fellowship from the British Film Institute on May 12, 2025. He described the filming of Eyes Wide Shut as a long, collaborative process. The crew was small, and the script was constantly rewritten to find the right tone.
“It was a very unique experience – not a large crew. We arrived in the summer and basically we just started testing… constantly rewriting the scenes and shooting them.”
Kidman has also shared memories of the film, noting lighter moments like go-kart racing after intense scenes.
Rumors about Cruise and Ana de Armas began in February 2025, when they were seen dining in London’s Soho area. They were spotted again in March, arriving at the London Heliport via Cruise’s helicopter. On April 29, 2025, the pair was photographed exiting a helicopter in London, just before de Armas’ 37th birthday.
“What a dayyyyy! Watched the best movie of the year (6 sinnersmovie – the hype is real, go watch it. Walked out of the toilet to come face to face with @tomcruise and Ana de Armas.”
A fan shared this on social media after spotting them at a cinema in Leicester Square.
Some sources claim Cruise and de Armas are not romantically involved. A source told People in March 2025 that they were discussing potential film projects, joined by director Doug Liman. One rumored project is a Days of Thunder sequel, though no details have been confirmed.
“Everything with Tom and Ana is innocent. They are hanging out to talk about future movies that they could do together.”
However, their frequent outings, including a discreet appearance at David Beckham’s 50th birthday party, have fueled speculation.
Cruise’s comments about Kidman show he still holds her in high regard professionally. He described meeting Kubrick after being introduced by director Sydney Pollack. Cruise flew to Kubrick’s home, landing in his backyard, to discuss Eyes Wide Shut. He read the script beforehand and spent the day talking with the director. His suggestion to cast Kidman proved successful, as both received praise for their performances despite the film’s controversial reception.
Kidman, now 57, has had a stellar career, winning an Oscar for The Hours in 2003 and earning multiple Golden Globes. She and Urban share two daughters, Sunday and Faith. Cruise, 62, remains a Hollywood powerhouse, with Mission: Impossible – The Final Reckoning set for release on May 23, 2025. De Armas, known for Knives Out and No Time to Die, stars in Ballerina, a John Wick spin-off, out June 6, 2025.
The public has taken note of Cruise’s comments and his sightings with de Armas. Social media reactions highlight fans’ surprise at his rare mention of Kidman.
“Finally … #TomCruise #praises #ex-#wife #NicoleKidman in rare comments as romance rumors with Ana de Armas heat up.”“Tom Cruise makes rare comment about his ex-wife Nicole Kidman, amid dating rumours with Ana de Armas.”
Cruise’s praise for Kidman underscores their shared history and mutual respect as actors. Meanwhile, his appearances with de Armas keep fans guessing about their relationship. Whether professional or personal, their connection is generating significant interest. Cruise’s next moves, both on-screen and off-screen, will likely remain in the spotlight.
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