‘I Will Always Love Tom Cruise’ – Rosie O’Donnell Opens Up on Their Unlikely Bond

Rosie O’Donnell is shedding light on her decades-long friendship with actor Tom Cruise, describing him as a “classy” and thoughtful friend despite their differences, particularly when it comes to his involvement with Scientology.

During a recent appearance on SiriusXM’s The Jess Cagle Show, O’Donnell spoke candidly about her enduring friendship with Cruise, which has spanned 25 years. She highlighted the actor’s dedication to remembering her birthday every year, a gesture that has left a lasting impression on her. “He is the only person who never misses my birthday,” O’Donnell shared. “In knowing him for 25 years now, he has never missed my birthday or an event in my life.”

O’Donnell further emphasized that their relationship isn’t one where she feels comfortable discussing personal matters like Scientology, which she has admitted not understanding. “I don’t know him enough to go, ‘Hey, Tommy, it’s Ro, the Scientology thing — can we chat?’” she said. “Like, that’s not my relationship with Tom Cruise. I don’t have his home phone number.” Despite their differences, she expressed a deep affection for him, saying, “I love Tom Cruise and I will always love Tom Cruise.”

O’Donnell’s respect for Cruise’s character goes beyond just his birthday gestures. She praised his consistency and thoughtfulness, adding, “Every year, I think what a classy guy he is that he never has forgotten my birthday.” While some have speculated that it might be his secretary sending the gifts, O’Donnell remains convinced that Cruise personally remembers her special day. “I think he knows in early March, ‘Oh, it’s Rosie’s birthday coming up,’ and he sends me something. Every single year for 25 years.”

While O’Donnell has been vocal about her discomfort with Scientology—calling the religion “scary”—she expressed admiration for Leah Remini, a former Scientologist turned outspoken critic of the church. O’Donnell’s openness about her feelings towards Cruise and Scientology reflects her nuanced stance on their friendship, where personal loyalty and respect outweigh doctrinal differences.

O’Donnell’s heartfelt remarks are a reminder that friendships in Hollywood can often transcend ideological divides, and in the case of her relationship with Tom Cruise, affection and respect have withstood the test of time.