Tom Cruise is a highly influential figure in the entertainment industry, known for his remarkable popularity. However, many might be unaware of the extent of his control over casting decisions in his projects. This power allows him to prevent actors from leaving or to release them with relative ease. It highlights his dedication to the art of filmmaking, especially considering the challenges of working with performers who may exit a project unexpectedly. Two actors have shared contrasting experiences with Cruise, showcasing his complex engagement with the industry.
Jessica Chastain was initially slated to appear alongside Tom Cruise in the 2013 film Oblivion, but because of overlapping commitments, she was required to step back. This talented actress, celebrated for her role in Fox’s Dark Phoenix, received encouragement to take on a leading part in Kathryn Bigelow’s Zero Dark Thirty. However, at that time, she was also committed to Cruise’s project.
Chastain was eager to contribute to both films, but ultimately, she could not manage both obligations. Faced with a difficult decision, she had her agent reach out to Cruise to explain her predicament, expressing her enthusiasm for collaborating with him on Oblivion while emphasizing the significance of her other opportunity. To her surprise, Cruise allowed her to exit the contract.
In a conversation with The Hollywood Reporter, Chastain praised Cruise for his generosity, stating that his support enabled her to pursue Zero Dark Thirty. She expressed her admiration for him, conveying that he is an extraordinary person. Such a decision is rarely made by studios, yet Cruise’s position afforded him the ability to grant Chastain the freedom to follow her career ambitions. She humorously remarked that with Tom Cruise’s backing, it was a unique situation and conveyed her aspiration to collaborate with him down the line.
Meanwhile, Dougray Scott faced a significant setback in his career due to Cruise's influence. The Scottish actor was initially considered for the role of Wolverine within the X-Men franchise, although lost the opportunity when Cruise, who had previously collaborated with him on Mission: Impossible II, insisted that Scott complete his work on that film. Scott expressed his desire to take on the Wolverine role, yet Cruise’s insistence kept him tied to his current project.
In a discussion with The Daily Telegraph, Scott disclosed that he had been offered the chance to star in Bryan Singer’s film. However, Cruise’s intervention led him to miss out on the role that ultimately elevated Hugh Jackman to international fame. Scott described Cruise as a formidable presence in the industry and voiced his disappointment about the missed opportunity, noting that numerous people were trying hard to make the arrangement work. In hindsight, it seems that this turn of events may have worked out for the best for all involved.