‘No One Is Allowed To…’: Here’s How Tom Cruise Became The First Person To Touch The LA Sign

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As a lifestyle expert with decades of experience in entertainment and event production, I must say that Tom Cruise‘s stunt at the Paris Olympics closing ceremony was nothing short of breathtaking. The level of planning, precision, and showmanship involved is a testament to Cruise’s unparalleled dedication to his craft.

During the closing ceremony of the Paris Olympics in 2024, Tom Cruise brought a dash of cinematic enchantment to the proceedings. On August 11, the charismatic actor, who is at present shooting Mission: Impossible 8, executed an eagerly awaited stunt. The footage opened with him abseiling from the Stade de France’s roof and culminated with his arrival at the iconic Hollywood sign in Los Angeles, where the 2028 Summer Olympics will be held.

Ben Winston, head of Fulwell 73 Productions and responsible for both executive production and creative direction, shared with Vogue that the preparations for this stunt spanned a period of about one and a half years. While Tom Cruise, who is 62 years old, ascended the Hollywood sign in March to shoot that particular scene, photographers managed to capture his ascent, showcasing the challenges involved in maintaining secrecy around the stunt. During the initial week of the games, Cruise was present among the spectators, enjoying the performance of H.E.R., who sang the U.S. national anthem.

Following his descent to the ground, Tom Cruise was warmly welcomed by medal-winning sports champions. Despite a well-meaning woman’s attempt to kiss him, he gracefully avoided the gesture, a skill typical of an experienced actor. In the company of Los Angeles Mayor Karen Bass and esteemed gymnast Simone Biles, Cruise was presented with the Olympic flag.

He then brought the flag to his motorcycle and rode out of the arena without a helmet. A prerecorded segment began with Cruise channeling his Top Gun character, Maverick, against the Eiffel Tower backdrop in Paris. In a dramatic finish, Cruise boarded a plane, and moments later, jumped out with the flag folded and tucked away.

As you reach Los Angeles, a fresh look greets you on the Hollywood sign, as the two Os have been replaced by the iconic five Olympic rings. Notable athletes like mountain biker Kate Courtney, former sprinter Michael Johnson, and skateboarder Jagger Eaton marched the flag to the beach. There, electrifying performances by the Red Hot Chili Peppers, Billie Eilish, Snoop Dogg, and Dr. Dre unfolded.

According to Jeff Zarrinnam, Chairman of the Hollywood Sign Trust, “maintaining secrecy about the stunt was a daring endeavor.” In fact, they deliberately switched off their own cameras during the performance to ensure confidentiality.

The video provides a clear display, showcasing the Hollywood sign embellished with Olympic rings, as the camera smoothly transitions from a close focus on Tom Cruise to a wider angle encompassing the entire sign.

According to Zarrinnam, they aimed to accomplish something truly impressive, perhaps involving the famous Hollywood Sign as it symbolizes Los Angeles. As soon as Cruise learned about the plan, he showed great excitement. The chairman further explained that this place holds significant meaning for him.

Instead of driving a car for the two-day shoot, Cruise opted to fly his private helicopter up to the Hollywood sign’s helipad. It was pointed out by Zarrinnam that under usual circumstances, no one is permitted to interact with the Hollywood sign during filming. This instance, however, marked an exception, as it was the first time the sign had been physically touched. This occasion hinted at the extravagance, glamour, and grandeur that will likely characterize the festivities when the Summer Games arrive in Los Angeles in 2028.

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2024-08-20 11:23