Tom Cruise Praises Ex-Wife Nicole Kidman as a ‘Great Actress’

Bang Showbiz | Los Angeles

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Tom Cruise has paid tribute to his ex-wife Nicole Kidman, describing her as a “great actress” and reflecting on their time working together on Eyes Wide Shut.

The Top Gun star, who was married to Kidman from 1990 to 2001, recalled recommending her for the role of Alice Harford in Stanley Kubrick’s 1999 psychological drama. Speaking to the British Film Institute’s Sight and Sound magazine, Cruise said he believed Nicole was the perfect fit for the part.

“I flew out to his [Kubrick’s] house and landed in his backyard,” Cruise said. “I read the script the day before, and we spent the day talking about it. I knew all of his films. While we were getting to know each other, I suggested Nicole for the role—because, obviously, she’s a great actress.”

The production of Eyes Wide Shut famously stretched over 400 days. Cruise recalled promising Kubrick his full commitment to the demanding shoot, even as the legendary director downplayed the expected timeline.

“I knew it was going to be a long shoot,” Cruise said. “He told me, ‘No, no, we’ll finish in three or four months.’ And I said, ‘Stanley, I’m here for you. Whatever it’s going to take, we’re going to do this.’”

Reflecting on the experience, Cruise emphasized his passion for filmmaking. “When I go to make a movie, I spend a lot of time in preparation—understanding what people need, how we can collaborate, and really create something special,” he explained.

Cruise also spoke fondly of working with Val Kilmer, who passed away last month at age 65. The two reunited in Top Gun: Maverick, and Cruise shared his appreciation for Kilmer’s return to the franchise.

“I felt so grateful that he agreed to do the film,” Cruise said. “We did a lot to make it happen. At first, he didn’t want to do it—he said, ‘I don’t want to be a supporting character. I want to star in films.’”

Despite the initial hesitation, Kilmer’s appearance was a highlight for fans—and a meaningful moment for Cruise, who cherished their on-screen reunion.