It was a night full of glamour, old friends, and big career moments for Tom Cruise, who was honored with the prestigious British Film Institute Fellowship at a glitzy dinner in London.
But it wasn’t just the award that turned heads—it was the presence of someone from his past that had fans talking.
Ex-Girlfriend Hayley Atwell Shows Her Support
Despite their romantic chapter being over, Tom’s Mission: Impossible co-star and former girlfriend Hayley Atwell was right there by his side—well, figuratively speaking.
The actress made a surprise appearance at the BFI Chair’s Dinner, showing up in style to support her ex.
Wearing a sharp black blazer and matching skirt with bold padded shoulders, Hayley looked as poised as ever.
She topped off the look with white stilettos and a sleek bun, keeping her makeup and jewelry minimal but elegant.
Hollywood Glamour on the Red Carpet
Tom Cruise, now 62, arrived with that trademark charm, flashing a smile in a crisp white shirt paired with a blue spotted tie.
Though he’s currently dating Knives Out star Ana de Armas, he seemed delighted to be surrounded by a supportive crowd from the film world.
The red carpet was packed with star power. Sabrina Elba turned heads in a stunning sleeveless black gown adorned with a horse design, while Ted Lasso star Hannah Waddingham brought pure elegance in an off-the-shoulder white dress.
Angela Bassett looked fierce and fabulous in a white structured corset with tailored pants, and Simon Pegg added flair with a shiny pink blazer.
Tramell Tillman didn’t hold back either, rocking a bold red silk suit.
Mission: Impossible Finale Heads to Cannes
This big night in London comes just days before Cruise is set to fly to Cannes for the highly anticipated premiere of Mission: Impossible – The Final Reckoning.
The film, which has had its fair share of delays, will finally hit theaters on May 23, 2025.
Hayley Atwell will also reprise her role in the film, playing Grace—a thief-turned-IMF agent who teams up with Cruise’s character, Ethan Hunt.
This eighth installment promises more high-stakes action and emotional storytelling that the franchise has become known for.
A Musical Dream Still on His Bucket List
While fans may know Tom Cruise best for his action-packed stunts, he’s got his eye on something a little more theatrical—musicals.
During a live conversation at the BFI earlier that weekend, Cruise shared that he’s itching to return to the genre after starring as Stacee Jaxx in Rock of Ages back in 2012.
“Definitely musicals,” he told the crowd, according to Rolling Stone.
“Drama, action, adventures. It’s endless. My goals are endless.”
Cookin’ Up Ideas with Longtime Collaborator
Cruise also teased that he and director Christopher McQuarrie—his creative partner on the Mission films since 2015—are dreaming up new projects together.
“We’ve got a lot,” Tom said of their brainstorming sessions. “Our relationship is just endless stories.”
From producing the original Mission: Impossible back in 1996 to redefining action filmmaking, Cruise said his passion lies in exploring the emotional side of storytelling through high-octane sequences.
“How can I evolve action and imbue it with more emotion? That’s my interest,” he explained.
Tom Pulls Off Another Daredevil Move
Of course, it wouldn’t be a Tom Cruise press tour without a jaw-dropping stunt.
To celebrate his London visit, the actor took things to new heights—literally—by making a surprise appearance on the roof of the BFI IMAX cinema.
Still the daredevil after all these years, Cruise proved once again that he’s not just an actor—he’s a full-on entertainer, on and off the screen.