Tom Cruise Closes Paris Olympics 2024 with Cross-Country, Skydiving Stunt

August 12, 2024 France Events & Announcements Sports

The 2024 Paris Olympics came to a spectacular close on August 11, 2024 with a daring stunt by Hollywood actor Tom Cruise, who seamlessly combined his love for adrenaline-pumping action with his support for the Olympic Games. The 62-year-old star of Mission: Impossible capped off the closing ceremony with a breathtaking display of skydiving, abseiling, and motorcycle riding that left the audience in awe.

Dressed in his signature leather jacket and gloves, Cruise began his daring feat atop the Stade de France, where he rappelled 50 meters (164 feet) from the stadium roof. The crowd erupted in cheers as he made his descent. Filipino American musician H.E.R. provided a rock-infused soundtrack on electric guitar, after just doing a stirring rendition of the U.S. national anthem.

Upon reaching the stadium floor, Cruise was met by a throng of excited athletes. He grinned as he was handed the Olympic flag by Los Angeles Mayor Karen Bass and American gymnastics legend Simone Biles. Without missing a beat, Cruise secured the flag to a motorcycle and rode off into what appeared to be the sunset — or at least the next phase of his meticulously choreographed adventure.

In a pre-recorded video that played for the global audience, Cruise was seen speeding through the streets of Paris on his motorcycle, with iconic landmarks like the Eiffel Tower in the background. “I’m on my way,” he declared, as he put on skydiving gear to the tune of “By the Way” by the Red Hot Chili Peppers.

His journey then took a dramatic turn as he boarded a plane, donned skydiving gear, and leapt from the aircraft to make his way to Los Angeles.

As Cruise touched down near the famous Hollywood sign, he transformed the “O”s into Olympic rings, symbolizing the official handoff from Paris to Los Angeles for the 2028 Games. The star then passed the Olympic flag to cyclist Kate Courtney, who continued the journey through the City of Angels.

The closing ceremony didn’t end there. Courtney, along with Olympians Michael Johnson and Jagger Eaton, made their way to Venice Beach, where a star-studded concert awaited. The Red Hot Chili Peppers, natives of California, kicked off the live performances with their classic hit “Can’t Stop.” The event also featured chart-toppers Billie Eilish and Snoop Dogg, who performed alongside Dr. Dre, creating a festive atmosphere that celebrated the spirit of the Olympics and set the stage for Los Angeles 2028.

Cruise once again proved that he is a master of doing his own stunts just as he did when he scaled the 163-floor building, the Burj Khalifa. Known for his long-standing love of the Olympics, the Hollywood actor helped carry the Olympic torch at Los Angeles’ Dodger Stadium in 2004.