How has Tom Cruise remained such a beloved movie star despite his deep ties to Scientology?
https://t.co/nl5qTbhmDA- Rolling Stone (@RollingStone)
July 16, 2023 Rolling Stone has put the boot on Tom Cruise's neck, as the magazine questions just how Tom Cruise seemingly got the movie-going public to forget about his troublesome ties to the Scientology cult.
Let's get into it:
- RS does admit that Tom's recent movies, such as Top Gun: Maverick, have helped revive the film industry amid the challenges of Covid-19 and streaming. Mission: Impossible - Dead Reckoning Part One is expected to achieve similar success.
- Cruise's fame and popularity have reached unprecedented levels.
- Despite his success, Cruise is still associated with the Church of Scientology.
- The Church has been accused of various abuses and misconduct, which they deny. These abuses include (but are not limited to) trafficking and forced labor.
- However, none of the allegations or controversies have affected Cruise's career or public image.
- Alex Gibney, director of Going Clear, remains surprised by Cruise's ability to avoid any negative consequences: “There are stories about him that, if one could get people to go on the record, would be shocking,” [...] “But they have to be willing to do it. And so far, they haven’t been.”
- Numerous books, documentaries, lawsuits, and even a South Park episode have shed light on the subject. During recent award shows, hosts openly joked about Cruise's association with Scientology. There was a period when it seemed possible that Cruise's association with Scientology would have negative consequences for both parties.
- In the mid-2000s, Cruise made controversial statements against psychology and pharmaceuticals. He was willing to give interviews discussing Scientology openly.
- Even so, unlike other problematic actors, Cruise's dedication to his work has helped maintain his beloved status.
- There is no evidence that Tom Cruise has distanced himself from or intends to leave the Church of Scientology.
- Tommy Tom has successfully developed a dual identity as both an action hero and a prominent $cilon. His status as an action hero helps divert attention from his association with the cult.
- The general public now sees him as a savior of the film industry, further enhancing his overall image.
- Speculation suggests that Cruise's success may also benefit the Church of Scientology by serving as a symbol of its value and power - despite negative press and declining membership.
tbh the whole article is pretty good, check it out
at the Source. Also, don't forget this 2011 report from Gawker:
Tom Cruise's Favorite Toys Were Built For Free by Scientology Slaves