The Truth About Tom Cruise's Character In 'Tropic Thunder'

Tom was supposed to play the leading role that Ben Stiller ended up taking.

Love him or loathe him, there's no denying that Tom Cruise basically stole Tropic Thunder. While the movie was filled with controversy, such as Robert Downey Jr.'s character's acting choices , the 2008 film remains beloved. In the film, Tom Cruise played a vile Hollywood mogul named Les Grossman. Given Tom's incredible filmography , it makes sense that he brought this character to life so well. But given Tom's recent set outburst as well as his not-so-clean reputation among some in Hollywood perhaps his casting was even more calculated. Either way, Tom Cruise absolutely knocked this role out of the park. Thanks to a fantastic article by Grantland , we now know how he was able to do this...

Tom Was Supposed To Play Ben's Role Until He Gave A Very Specific Script Note

Tom Cruise needed to repair his image in 2007. Years of conflict with marriages, jumping on couches, and squabbles with the studio making his Mission Impossible movies put him in a bad light. Ultimately, Tropic Thunder was the film that helped (momentarily) rehabilitate his image. But Tom wasn't supposed to play Les Grossman, the vicious studio executive who clearly believed actors were disposable. Actually, Tom was supposed to play the leading role that Ben Stiller ended up taking. It made sense that Ben wasn't initially interested in the lead role. After all, he was already directing it and writing it with Justin Theroux and Etan Cohen.

"Justin Theroux and I had been working on the script on and off for eight years," Ben Stiller said to Grantland. "We had an outline and about half a script. I knew how it should end. Then we brought Etan on and got a full draft."

When Etan Cohen came on in 2002, he basically came up with the idea that would lead Tom Cruise to essentially create Les Grossman.

Related: Amidst The Tom Cruise Controversy, Katie Holmes Seems Unbothered And Is Focusing On Christmas

"We were still figuring out why the actors would get abandoned and no one would notice that all these stars were gone," Etan Cohen said. "So I had written this throwaway thing at the side of the document that said: 'Maybe the studio has an insurance policy on production. When the director dies they recoup all their expenses, so the studio doesn’t care about the actors.' Then we totally went away from that for years."

By that time, Tom Cruise had already read the script and claimed that there was a need for another villain. In fact, he even stated that it could use a greedy studio exec who 'represents the gross part of Hollywood'.

"His idea to show the studio head actually fixed a problem we had for a long time. We never cut back to the real world for any of the previous drafts. All the Grossman scenes totally fixed the plot holes" Ben Stiller claimed.

Related: Tom Cruise Trolled For 'Social Distancing From His Daughter' After Fiery Audio Leaks

Soon after, a new draft was written and Ben gave the role of the studio exec to Tom, who couldn't take it due to scheduling conflicts. But there was no name for the character at first. In fact, it took an entire year for 'Les Grossman' to officially be created.

"Ben decided he was going to play Speedman, and then he got a phone call from Tom, who said he just couldn’t get the script out of his mind. Tom asked, 'What else is open?' And Ben said, 'Well, we haven’t cast the Les Grossman role yet.' Tom was like, 'I’d play that,'" producer Stuart Cornfeld said.

Les Grossman's Look Was Half The Performance

While Tom brought a certain amount of energy to the role, his hair, make-up, and prosthetics were really what made the performance memorable. After all, Tom was barely recognizable.

"I was Tom’s go-to makeup person from Interview With the Vampire on. I did a lot of big, iconic looks for him," makeup designer Michèle Burke said. "I got a text saying, 'Tom wants to have hairy arms.' And I was thinking, Oh, OK, we can get hairy arms. Then they were like, 'We want him to have a hairy chest.' Then suddenly it was like he’s going to have big hands, and I’m sitting there thinking, This is getting bigger than I expected. Then they started sending me pictures of other people who looked a bit like this. You know, with the gold jewelry, the hairy chest. I thought, OK, now I’m beginning to get the picture, this is full-on."

Then, of course, there was the fat suit which was a bunch of custom pads made out of foam and beading from the inside of a pillow. This beading accurately mimicked the jiggle that human fat makes when it moves; something that was vital for the dance number...

All About Tom Cruise Dancing

"We’re doing the makeup test and it’s the first time Tom’s in the Les Grossman outfit. He stops and says, 'Maybe I should dance in this. You know, I haven’t danced in a movie in a long time,'" producer Stuart Cornfeld said.

The Mission Impossible and Eye Wide Shut star ended up choreographing all of his own dance moves which just made everyone on the set burst out laughing.

"I remember him standing off in a corner just working on his moves," co-star Bill Hader explained.

The outrageous costume, hair, and make-up, the hilarious lines (mostly written by Justin Theroux), as well as the performance and energy that Tom Cruise brought to the role, ended up creating a truly memorable character.

Next: Why Did Tom Cruise Agree To A Cameo In 'Austin Powers'?

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Tropic Thunder 2008

Les Grossman: [incensed at Flaming Dragon's demands] Okay Flaming Dragon, f***face. First, take a big step back... and literally f*** your own face! I don't know what kind of pan-Pacific bullshit power play you're trying to pull here, but Asia, Jack, is my territory. So whatever you're thinking, you'd better think again! Otherwise I'm gonna have to head down there and I will rain down an ungodly f***ing firestorm upon you! You're gonna have to call the f***ing United Nations and get a f***ing binding resolution to keep me from f***ing destroying you. I am talking scorched-earth, motherf***er! I will massacre you! I will f*** you up! [hangs up; to assistant] Can you find out who that was?

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This Unexpected Cameo Is Tom Cruise’s Best Performance Ever

Tom Cruise’s cameo in Tropic Thunder demonstrates how thoroughly he can disappear into a role.

To say that Tom Cruise is one of the biggest Hollywood celebrities ever to exist would either be hyperbole or an understatement, depending on the era and measurement. His career thus far has spanned three decades and is about to exit Earth’s orbit - literally . He is known for pushing the boundaries of what his body and skills can portray on film, such as the incredible stunts he regularly performs for his mega-franchise Mission Impossible, or the meticulous training he puts himself through to perfect a character . His global celebrity has restricted him to only a few chances to let his hair down and have fun for a change, but when he does the result is unforgettable. In fact, arguably his best performance ever given was just such an occasion when he played Les Grossman in 2008’s brilliant Tropic Thunder.

Undoubtedly known as a serious actor and an action star, Tom Cruise rarely puts himself in comedies of the magnitude that is Tropic Thunder . The outrageous and hilarious spoof brought out the best of Cruise’s comedic talent and teased audiences to a future movie that sadly never materialized. Tropic Thunder starred Ben Stiller, Robert Downey Jr., Jack Black, and several other Hollywood celebrities like Matthew McConaughey, Nick Nolte, Bill Hader, and Dany McBride. Though controversial in many regards, it became a global success and one of the funniest comedies of the early 21st Century. This already perfect comedy is elevated by sneaking in Tom Cruise behind a fat suit and a bald cap!

RELATED: These Movies Are Perfect Parodies Of 80s And 90s Action

“Mm, That’s Good Satire”

Tropic Thunder operates on many layers of comedy, satire, parody, and unintentional real-life irony. First, as a comedy, it is a movie about making a fake movie that turns “real life” dangerous. Second, in satire, it skewers the bloated Hollywood organism . Third, the characters parody a range of Hollywood types like the cocaine-addled comedian, the overzealous Oscar hound, and the chiseled action star diva. Figures behind the camera are also parodied like the first-time director type, the brown noser executive assistant, and the high adrenaline power-mad Studio Executive. All these types so common to Hollywood are turned into caricatures on screen for the industry and audiences’ amusement.

A fair example of how Tropic Thunder 's once-praised satire has not exactly aged well is Robert Downey Jr.’s character. This is where it gets ironic as well. 2008 is the same year Downey starred in the first Iron Man . He was regaining his celebrity after recovering from years of addiction abuse. He was already a marquee actor from his Oscar nomination sixteen years earlier for Chaplin (1992). Most likely just for kicks, he decided to star alongside Ben Stiller in Tropic Thunder as the Australian method actor and five-time Oscar winner Kirk Lazarus.

Lazarus is such a serious actor that to portray the black soldier Lincoln Osiris he undergoes a skin alteration to change his own skin color black. He deepens his voice as well to play Osiris, but it is a naïve, misunderstood, offensive, yet almost innocent to the point of gross stupidity, performance. Lazarus is so “focused” and “committed” to the role that he blindly dives headfirst into blackface. Despite the fact that the movie is supposedly making fun of the idea of blackface, at the same time, it is still doing it. This is the sort of "satire" that has (thankfully) fallen out of favor with audiences.

Lazarus is so dedicated to winning another Oscar that he creates an unrestrained, horrible, racist stereotype of a character – the exact opposite of what would get him nominated for another Academy Award. The unintended irony to all of this is that in real life, Robert Downey Jr. then gets an Oscar nomination for Best Supporting Actor for playing Kirk Lazarus playing Lincoln Osiris in Tropic Thunder .

Tom Cruise as Les Grossman

Tropic Thunder is already an unrivaled comedy by those chops alone , but to feature a cameo from Tom Cruise in a role so debauched as Les Grossman is just unbelievably awesome. Cruise has played in comedies before, such as his brief appearance playing Austin Powers in 2002’s Goldmember but never with the same commitment and depth as Tropic Thunder. Never before or since, sadly.

Originally, Cruise was supposed to play Ben Stiller’s agent Rick Peck ( ultimately played by Matthew McConaughey ). Instead, Cruise offered up a new character of his own invention. Wearing a fat suit, a bald cap, enlarged plastic hands, and a whole lot of chest and arm hair, Cruise became Les Grossman, the Studio Executive providing the money behind the movie who is also a raging foul-mouthed ogre. The personality of Grossman and the villainous role he would play in the film was all initiated by Cruise and developed alongside Ben Stiller. This proves that on top of everything else Cruise can do on camera , he can also be an original source of enormous comedy.

Les Grossman could be considered Tom Cruise’s best performance because he essentially erases himself in the character. If one was not told that Les Grossman was played by Tom Cruise, one would have a very hard time recognizing the actor. The mannerisms, the dance moves, the look are all out of the ordinary for a superstar like him, which is why the performance is such a magnificent sight to behold. Grossman is such a unique character it highlights the talent of Tom Cruise to a new degree. The fact that he never played a role like this again is a heavy loss for the greater movie-going public.

Tropic Thunder is a brilliant high watermark for comedy. To quietly contain Tom Cruise’s best performance ranks it even higher on the scales as one of the best movies ever made. Hopefully, after Tom Cruise finishes with the Mission Impossible franchise he launches the Les Grossman Cinematic Executive Universe .

MORE: Starship Troopers: Was The Buenos Aires Asteroid Attack A False Flag?

Tropic Thunder (2008)

Tom cruise: les grossman - grossman's office.

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Tom Cruise and Bill Hader in Tropic Thunder (2008)

Quotes 

Les Grossman : First, take a big step back... and literally, FUCK YOUR OWN FACE! I don't know what kind of pan-pacific bullshit power play you're trying to pull here, but Asia Jack is my territory. So whatever you're thinking, you'd better think again! Otherwise I'm gonna have to head down there and I will rain down an un-Godly fucking firestorm upon you! You're gonna have to call the fucking United Nations and get a fucking binding resolution to keep me from fucking destroying you. I'm talking scorched earth, motherfucker! I will massacre you! I WILL FUCK YOU UP!

Les Grossman : Now I want you to take a step back... and literally fuck your own face!

Byong : We no get money yet. Price now 100 million. You pay now, or tomorrow Simple Jack Die!

Les Grossman : Great. Let me get this down. 100 million... Oh, wait! I got a better idea. Instead of a hundred million, how about I send you a hobo's dick cheese? Then, you kill him. Do your thing, skin the fucking bastard. Go to town, man. Go to town! In the mean time and as usual, go fuck yourself.

Studio Executive Rob Slolom : Wow. 8 Oscars, 400 million dollars, and you saved Tugg Speedman's career.

Les Grossman : I couldn't have done it without you.

Studio Executive Rob Slolom : Really?

Les Grossman : No, dickhead. Of course I could. A nutless monkey could do your job. Now, go get drunk and take credit at all the parties.

Studio Executive Rob Slolom : I wouldn't do that.

Les Grossman : Ah... joking.

Studio Executive Rob Slolom : Ah, there he is! Funny. You're a funny guy.

Les Grossman : Yeah. But seriously, a nutless monkey could do your job.

Four Leaf Tayback : Spanking a child turns him into a snot. Fear, that's what makes him a man. I know a place where a man's worth is measured by the ears hanging off his dog tags. The real hardcore shit! You wanna make this movie right? That's where you take your pansy ass actors.

Les Grossman : [beat]  Who is this guy?

Studio Executive Rob Slolom : Les, that's Four Leaf.

Four Leaf Tayback : Sergeant Four Leaf Tayback. I wrote the book.

Les Grossman : Wow. You're a great American. This nation owes you a huge debt. Now shut the fuck up and let me do my job!

Les Grossman : Look, fuckstick, I'm incredibly busy. So why don't you get the hell out of here before I snap your dick off and jam it into your ass...

Rick Peck : You can't be serious?

Les Grossman : You kick in the door to my house all ants in your pants, sucking my left nut to get a TiVo scrap for the 3rd runner-up "sexiest man alive" 1998... And you're asking if I'm SERIOUS?

Les Grossman : Speedman is a dying star. A white dwarf headed for a black hole. That's physics. It's inevitable.

Studio Executive Rob Slolom : We've been handed an incredible opportunity here, Peck.

Les Grossman : The universe... is talking to us right now. You just gotta listen.

[turns on T-Pain's Apple Bottom Jeans and begins to dance to the beat] 

Les Grossman : See, this is the good part, Pecker. This is when the job gets fun! Ask... and you shall receive!

Studio Executive Rob Slolom : [dancing along]  Right...

Les Grossman : You play ball... we play ball. I knoowwww... you want the goodies!

Studio Executive Rob Slolom : Welcome to the goodie room!

Les Grossman : You paying attention? I'm talking... G5, Pecker! That's how you can roll. No more frequent flyer bitch miles for my boy! Oh yeah! Playa... playa! Big dick playa!

Studio Executive Rob Slolom : Swinging past ya knees!

Les Grossman : Big dick, baby!

Studio Executive Rob Slolom : Yep.

Les Grossman : [turns off the music]  Or... you can grow a conscience in the next five minutes and see where that takes you.

Rick Peck : Let me get this straight. You want me to let my client of 15 years, one of my best friends, die in the jungle alone, for some money and a G5?

Les Grossman : Yes.

Rick Peck : [pause]  A G5 airplane?

Les Grossman : [whispering]  Yes... and lots of money... playaaaa!

[turns on the music and dances again] 

Les Grossman : [communicating with the production team in a video conference]  Which one of you fuckfaces is Damien Cockburn?

Damien Cockburn : Uh, that's me, sir. It's an honor to finally meet you. Get some face time.

Les Grossman : And who here is the key grip?

[the key grip raises his hand] 

Les Grossman : You? You! Hit that director in the face, really fucking hard!

Key Grip : [reluctantly walks over to Damien]  Sorry, man.

[punches him in the face] 

Les Grossman : This is all your fault, you limey FUCK!

Les Grossman : I will fucking massacre you!

Rick Peck : [about Speedman]  They're going to kill him!

Les Grossman : And we'll weep for him... in the press, set up a scholarship in his name, eventually - and I'm talkin' way, way down the road - we file an insurance claim.

Studio Executive Rob Slolom : Preferably before the end of the fiscal year. Actually, the claim alone would net us more than the movie would lose.

Les Grossman : We don't negotiate with terrorists.

Les Grossman : [talking to Peck]  Look fuck-stick, I'm incredibly busy, so why don't you get the hell out of here before I snap your dick off and jam it into your ass.

Les Grossman : [Peck looks dumbfounded]  No, not you Helen, but I will rip your tits off if you don't get me those theatres.

Les Grossman : Cockburn, from now on my fist is going to be so far up your shithole that every time you have a thought, it's gonna have to tiptoe past my wedding ring...

Les Grossman : Let's face it, the kids aren't exactly dressing up as The Scorcher for Purim anymore.

Les Grossman : What you gotta do is pull down their pants and spank their ass, you spank it.

Studio Executive Rob Slolom : You spank that ass Les!

[Peck bursts into Grossman's office unannounced] 

Les Grossman : What do you need, Peck?

Rick Peck : What do YOU need, Les? Glasses?

Les Grossman : ...What?

Les Grossman : Fuck the jungle!

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15 years ago, Tom Cruise revived his career with an uncredited role in Tropic Thunder

After a string of controversies and a split from longtime studio paramount, cruise was slipping out of favour with hollywood. that was, until he suggested the character of a diet coke-guzzling terror of a movie producer for his friend ben stiller’s new film, article bookmarked.

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Fifteen years ago, Tom Cruise took on a role that has since been credited for reviving his career. Now, with the latest Mission: Impossible film just released and Cruise enjoying his time as one of the top 10 highest-grossing lead actors of all time, it’s hard to imagine. But back then, he was falling out of favour due to a spate of controversial public behaviour.

In 2006, Cruise was a PR nightmare dominating headlines for all the wrong reasons. The previous year, he’d caused uproar with his notorious couch-jumping stunt during an interview with Oprah. He was supposed to be promoting Steven Spielberg ’s movie War of the Worlds , but instead decided to declare his love for fellow actor Katie Holmes , in the most over-enthusiastic manner possible.

The clip was viewed millions of times around the world thanks to a new website called YouTube, sparking a reported feud with Spielberg, who apparently believed that Cruise’s behaviour had damaged War of the Worlds ’ success at the box office. (Cruise would later tell Oprah in a 2015 interview that the moment was “real” for him and he was unsure if he’d take it back.)

That same year, Cruise was heavily criticised for his remarks about Brooke Shields, where he accused her of spreading “irresponsible misinformation” about antidepressants. Shields, who struggled with conception, revealed in her book Down Came the Rain: My Journey Through Postpartum Depression, that she’d taken medication to help treat her condition.

In a heated discussion on The Today Show, Cruise told then-host Matt Lauer that Shields “didn’t understand the history of psychiatry”, and went so far as to brand her “dangerous”. Shields then wrote a New York Times op-ed, in which she suggested Cruise “stick to fighting aliens”. He was also criticised by medical experts who warned that he risked increasing the stigma surrounding mental illness.

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Shields said that Cruise apologised for his remarks in person, and that she’d been impressed by his apology, during an appearance on The Tonight Show with Jay Leno. “He apologised for bringing me into the whole thing and for everything that happened,” she said.

“And through it all, I was so impressed with how heartfelt it was. And I didn't feel at any time that I had to defend myself, nor did I feel that he was trying to convince me of anything other than the fact that he was deeply sorry. And I accepted it.”

By 2006, Cruise was rapidly falling out of favour with Hollywood, even as he was ranked as the world’s most powerful celebrity by Forbes . His influence and box-office success were indisputable, of course, but industry figures – and the public – appeared to be growing tired of his highly publicised antics.

Evidence of this emerged when Paramount Studios cut ties with Cruise after a 14-year relationship, and Sumner Redstone, then-chairman of the studio’s parent company, Viacom, cited the actor’s public behaviour as one of the reasons behind the decision.

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“It’s nothing to do with his acting ability, he’s a terrific actor,” Redstone said at the time. “But we don’t think that someone who effectuates creative suicide and costs the company revenue should be on the lot.”

This shocking upset, which landed after years of success since Cruise first starred in Top Gun in 1986, caused many Hollywood critics to wonder if this was the end of his career. That was, until 2008, when Cruise showed up in a cameo role in his friend Ben Stiller ’s box office hit, Tropic Thunder – about a cast of prima donna actors shooting a movie in Vietnam – as the balding, Diet Coke-guzzling, expletive-uttering movie executive Les Grossman.

Tom Cruise and Matthew McConaughey in ‘Tropic Thunder'

Opening up about Cruise’s role in an Esquire interview, director Stiller revealed that it was actually his friend’s idea to play Les. “Tom Cruise had the idea to play Les Grossman in the movie,” Stiller says. “That part did not exist. He said, ‘Well, there’s no studio executive and that would be really fun to be that guy.’ And he had this whole idea of what the guy should look like. It was his idea to dance. And I remember when we did a makeup test, someone handed him a Diet Coke and then he just started moving.”

Cruise certainly committed to the role. In a 2019 interview with Conan O’Brien, he recalled that his two stipulations for the role were that he wanted “fat hands”, and he wanted to dance. Wearing a fat suit, prosthetic hands and a bald cap, he was virtually unrecognisable as the suave Hollywood star the world knew, dancing to Ludacris’s “Get Back” one moment, screaming at a film crew the next (OK, the latter sounds more familiar after his notorious Mission Impossible diatribe in 2020 ). For many watching Tropic Thunder at the cinema, it wasn’t apparent that Cruise was behind the character until the end credits began to roll.

The film itself was controversial, not least for Robert Downey Jr’s performance, which involved wearing blackface to play method-loving Australian actor, Kirk Lazarus. Cruise’s character was also scrutinised: the New York Times noted how Grossman was “heavily and heavy-handedly coded as Jewish…the character is murderous, repellent and fascinating, a grotesque from his swollen fingers to the heavy gold dollar sign nestled on his yeti-furred chest”.

Yet audiences adored Cruise in the movie, and in the years since, his performance in Tropic Thunde r has been widely credited for “resurrecting” his career, along with proving he could do comedy, as well as action. Since then, fans have been begging Cruise to reprise the role, and it seems they might actually get their wish. Last year, in a Deadline report about him and his regular collaborator Christopher McQuarrie, it was claimed that the duo are “fixated” on the character of Les Grossman, and are working out how best to bring him back.

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What Tom Cruise’s COVID-19 Rant Really Means

The incident on location for Mission: Impossible 7 is indicative of how film sets have become pressure cookers during the pandemic.

Tom Cruise wearing a mask

In the 2008 comedy Tropic Thunder , Tom Cruise stole scenes by mocking Hollywood’s entitlement. As the cocksure, foulmouthed studio exec Les Grossman, Cruise put on a fat suit, wore heavy prosthetics, and peppered his lines with profanity. When a gang holding his cast hostage demands ransom, he doesn’t bother to listen to the specifics. Instead, he threatens the kidnappers by promising to “rain down an ungodly fucking firestorm.”

Cruise’s outburst on the U.K. set of Mission: Impossible 7 , leaked online early this week, isn’t quite as colorful as Grossman’s in language, but it certainly matches its tone. Upon finding crew members violating COVID-19 social-distancing guidelines, Cruise became upset and yelled at the staffers, insisting they follow protocols or leave. “They’re back there in Hollywood making movies right now because of us … I’m on the phone with every fucking studio at night, insurance companies, producers, and they’re looking at us and using us to make their movies!” he shouted. “We are creating thousands of jobs, you motherfuckers.”

Given the recent surges in coronavirus cases, the dire state of the film industry , and the fact that filming for Mission: Impossible 7 shut down once already, in October, after 12 crew members tested positive for the virus, it’s easy to see why Cruise would be riled up. It’s even easier to cheer him on: He’s expressing the inner thoughts of many Americans who have tried to persuade people flouting coronavirus precautions to protect themselves and others. Cruise is a familiar face, a familiar voice; he’s the megastar who’s embodied heroes on-screen for decades, the guy entrusted with reassuring America after a crisis . So it’s cathartic, even comforting, to hear him assert that safety is paramount.

Yet Cruise’s outburst is also indicative of how film sets have become pressure cookers during the pandemic. Mounting a production that follows health and safety guidelines could add about $1 million to the average movie shoot, making it even more important that the process go smoothly to be worth the cost. Industry unions took four months to reach an agreement over sick leave and quarantine pay—and still the guidelines can be hard to navigate and even harder to fulfill, with the necessity of frequent testing, stocks of personal protective equipment, and a complex zone-based system to limit contact. Plus, projects that result in positive cases have to pause production. As a crew member on a film shoot told Variety in September, “You need a baseline of anxiety to do this job well.”

These hurdles and high stakes have left the industry’s fate in the hands of Hollywood’s most powerful players—those people and studios that can afford the costs of such legal and logistical headaches. According to The Sun , the British tabloid that leaked the audio, Cruise paid $676,000 for a cruise ship that would allow the cast and crew to isolate. The über-producer Tyler Perry turned his Atlanta-based studios into a compound to quarantine his casts and crews, flying people in from various parts of the country on private planes. Universal spent $6 million to $8 million on safety protocols to film the next Jurassic World sequel, commissioning a private medical facility to handle tests, and quarantining the entire cast and crew for months. In the short term, this means more projects in the pipeline to keep Tinseltown busy. In the long term, though, the shift only widens Hollywood’s power imbalance, creating an industry dependent on the wealthiest studios and celebrities.

Cruise has clearly been frustrated by the turmoil of 2020, and he has good reason to be. But his angry tirade harms more than it heals, and praising his remarks, as many people have on social media, overlooks how little control crew members have amid the pandemic. Their need for employment makes them vulnerable to the industry’s deep-rooted problem of workplace abuse , desperate to meet the demands of movie stars and producers who can justify their risky business decisions as efforts to save the industry. Cruise can afford to position himself as Hollywood’s hero—to yell without consequence, to keep aiming for that “gold standard”—even if it means further tension and stress for his staffers. Behind-the-scenes workers don’t have that luxury. All they can do—as five crew members have reportedly done on the set of Mission: Impossible 7 after a second rant from the star —is quit.

In images released of Cruise on set in Europe, he’s masked. The mask he wears in many pictures, however, appears to use valves —the kind the CDC dissuades people from using, because the valves release particles from the wearer, endangering those around him. Hollywood’s approach to the pandemic—the reams of protocols, the ballooning budgets—has the same problem: protecting only a few while putting on a show of safety for the rest.

tropic thunder tom cruise rant

One of the highlights of the 2008 Ben Stiller comedy “Tropic Thunder” is Les Grossman, the venom-spewing, Diet Coke-drinking studio head who doesn’t care that the lead actor (Stiller) in his multimillion-dollar movie has been kidnapped in the jungles of Vietnam.

The reason why the character is so memorable is simple: He's played by Tom Cruise.

Well, it was probably the best time for Cruise to do something that’s not in his wheelhouse. Back then, Cruise was still getting over the box-office disaster of “Mission: Impossible 3,” and his public statements about Scientology caused Viacom chair Sumner Redstone to tell a reporter , “We don’t think that someone who effectuates creative suicide and costs the company revenue should be on the lot.”

Thankfully, Cruise's friend Ben Stiller wanted him to be in “Thunder.” And as the movie’s coscreenwriter Justin Theroux tells it, they wanted Cruise to have a larger part.

“We were talking to Tom about maybe doing Ben’s part — we wanted him in the movie,” Theroux told Business Insider while doing press for “Zoolander 2,” which he also cowrote. “We thought it would be a real coup to get him in the movie.”

But Cruise pushed for the minor studio-head role, so Theroux went to work on the character.

(Jeff Spicer/Getty) Justin Theroux.

“I went back and started working on it and sketching it out and basically creating the most vile character I could create,” Theroux revealed. “And there was a moment of going, ‘Oh, s--t, eventually Tom is going to see these pages and he’s going to be like, 'What the hell are you doing?’”

But that was far from the case. In fact, Cruise encouraged Theroux and Stiller to make the character even more offensive.

And when it came to the Les Grossman look — balding and overweight — Cruise suggested another memorable feature.

“He wanted these prosthetic hands — big, chubby hands,” Theroux said of Cruise's pointer.

In many ways. the Les Grossman character made Cruise hip again to an audience that was starting to write him off.

Since the release of “Tropic Thunder,” many have pushed for a spinoff that focuses on Grossman.

Theroux, for one, is game, and it seems like it might be tentatively in the works.

“We’ve talked about it,” Theroux said. “But it’s one of those things where we go, we don’t want to jam anything, we just want to make sure the tone is right and it would be the right story.”

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Yardbarker

20 facts you might not know about 'Tropic Thunder'

Posted: March 5, 2024 | Last updated: March 12, 2024

<p>War films can be tricky, and war comedies are even trickier. What about a comedy about making a war movie? <em>Tropic Thunder</em> made that a reality. The film spoofs method acting, frequently in uncomfortable ways, and much more. War is hell, but these 20 facts about <em>Tropic Thunder</em> will hopefully be much more pleasant for you.</p>

War films can be tricky, and war comedies are even trickier. What about a comedy about making a war movie? Tropic Thunder made that a reality. The film spoofs method acting, frequently in uncomfortable ways, and much more. War is hell, but these 20 facts about Tropic Thunder will hopefully be much more pleasant for you.

<p><em>Tropic Thunder</em> wouldn’t be released until 2008, but Stiller first got the idea decades earlier. The actor-turned-director got the first germ for the concept while acting in the war movie <em>Empire of the Sun</em> in 1987.</p><p>You may also like: <a href='https://www.yardbarker.com/entertainment/articles/15_prince_songs_made_famous_by_other_artists_030524/s1__23741893'>15 Prince songs made famous by other artists</a></p>

Ben Stiller had the idea long before he made it

Tropic Thunder wouldn’t be released until 2008, but Stiller first got the idea decades earlier. The actor-turned-director got the first germ for the concept while acting in the war movie Empire of the Sun in 1987.

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<p>Stiller co-wrote, directed, and starred in<em> Tropic Thunder</em>. One of the other writers on the movie? Justin Theroux. He’s primarily known as an actor, perhaps best known for <em>The Leftovers</em>. He also has writing credits on <em>Iron Man 2</em> and <em>Zoolander 2</em>.</p><p><a href='https://www.msn.com/en-us/community/channel/vid-cj9pqbr0vn9in2b6ddcd8sfgpfq6x6utp44fssrv6mc2gtybw0us'>Follow us on MSN to see more of our exclusive entertainment content.</a></p>

Another actor helped write the film

Stiller co-wrote, directed, and starred in  Tropic Thunder . One of the other writers on the movie? Justin Theroux. He’s primarily known as an actor, perhaps best known for The Leftovers . He also has writing credits on Iron Man 2 and Zoolander 2 .

Follow us on MSN to see more of our exclusive entertainment content.

<p><em>Tropic Thunder</em> was always going to be about actors taking themselves too seriously, but the nature of the plot changed. Initially, the script was about actors who go to a boot camp and return with PTSD. Then, they pivoted to a version of the story that could also lampoon war movies. The proliferation of celebrity news and companies like TMZ over the years helped make writing the script easier since Stiller and Theroux realized moviegoers would be more aware of the inner workings of Hollywood.</p><p>You may also like: <a href='https://www.yardbarker.com/entertainment/articles/the_ultimate_karol_g_playlist_022324/s1__39931626'>The ultimate Karol G playlist</a></p>

The plot changed a bit

Tropic Thunder was always going to be about actors taking themselves too seriously, but the nature of the plot changed. Initially, the script was about actors who go to a boot camp and return with PTSD. Then, they pivoted to a version of the story that could also lampoon war movies. The proliferation of celebrity news and companies like TMZ over the years helped make writing the script easier since Stiller and Theroux realized moviegoers would be more aware of the inner workings of Hollywood.

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<p>When Stiller first conceived the film, he thought he would only play the smaller role of Rick Peck, Tugg Speedman’s agent. Keanu Reeves was who he had in mind for the role of Tugg. Eventually, Stiller starred as well as directed.</p><p><a href='https://www.msn.com/en-us/community/channel/vid-cj9pqbr0vn9in2b6ddcd8sfgpfq6x6utp44fssrv6mc2gtybw0us'>Follow us on MSN to see more of our exclusive entertainment content.</a></p>

Stiller didn’t originally intend to star

When Stiller first conceived the film, he thought he would only play the smaller role of Rick Peck, Tugg Speedman’s agent. Keanu Reeves was who he had in mind for the role of Tugg. Eventually, Stiller starred as well as directed.

<p>With Stiller playing Tugg, the role of Rick was offered to…Tom Cruise. Cruise pitched the idea of a studio head character. Stiller went along with it, and thus, the character of Les Grossman, perhaps the best remembered part of the movie, was born.</p><p>You may also like: <a href='https://www.yardbarker.com/entertainment/articles/the_20_most_iconic_saturday_night_live_skits_010824/s1__39708632'>The 20 most iconic 'Saturday Night Live' skits</a></p>

The big cameo was almost Rick Peck

With Stiller playing Tugg, the role of Rick was offered to…Tom Cruise. Cruise pitched the idea of a studio head character. Stiller went along with it, and thus, the character of Les Grossman, perhaps the best remembered part of the movie, was born.

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<p>Cruise buried himself in prosthetics to play Les (the big hands were his idea), and he and Stiller did not want the cameo ruined. Paramount did not release any images of Cruise in the film, and his overall involvement in the movie was supposed to be kept secret. Then, pictures of Cruise in costume popped up online. After this, Cruise’s lawyers sprung into action. Soon enough, the photos of Cruise as Grossman were removed from the internet.</p><p><a href='https://www.msn.com/en-us/community/channel/vid-cj9pqbr0vn9in2b6ddcd8sfgpfq6x6utp44fssrv6mc2gtybw0us'>Follow us on MSN to see more of our exclusive entertainment content.</a></p>

Cruise was very serious about keeping his cameo a secret

Cruise buried himself in prosthetics to play Les (the big hands were his idea), and he and Stiller did not want the cameo ruined. Paramount did not release any images of Cruise in the film, and his overall involvement in the movie was supposed to be kept secret. Then, pictures of Cruise in costume popped up online. After this, Cruise’s lawyers sprung into action. Soon enough, the photos of Cruise as Grossman were removed from the internet.

<p>With Cruise playing Grossman, somebody still had to play Rick Peck. Enter: Stiller’s frequent co-star Owen Wilson. Sadly, Wilson attempted suıcide in 2007 and understandably dropped out of the role. He was replaced by Matthew McConaughey.</p><p>You may also like: <a href='https://www.yardbarker.com/entertainment/articles/20_facts_you_might_not_know_about_the_big_lebowski_022324/s1__35759558'>20 facts you might not know about 'The Big Lebowski'</a></p>

The casting of Rick changed again

With Cruise playing Grossman, somebody still had to play Rick Peck. Enter: Stiller’s frequent co-star Owen Wilson. Sadly, Wilson attempted suıcide in 2007 and understandably dropped out of the role. He was replaced by Matthew McConaughey.

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<p>When the character of Kirk Lazarus was written, he was supposed to be Irish. Perhaps the ultimate method actor was spoofing Daniel Day-Lewis. However, Downey Jr. asked him to be Australian instead. He had done an Australian accent before and felt more comfortable doing comedy and improvising with an Australian accent.</p><p><a href='https://www.msn.com/en-us/community/channel/vid-cj9pqbr0vn9in2b6ddcd8sfgpfq6x6utp44fssrv6mc2gtybw0us'>Follow us on MSN to see more of our exclusive entertainment content.</a></p>

Kirk Lazarus was changed by Robert Downey Jr.

When the character of Kirk Lazarus was written, he was supposed to be Irish. Perhaps the ultimate method actor was spoofing Daniel Day-Lewis. However, Downey Jr. asked him to be Australian instead. He had done an Australian accent before and felt more comfortable doing comedy and improvising with an Australian accent.

<p>The production needed a last-minute replacement for the actor starring alongside Kirk Lazarus in <em>Satan’s Alley</em>. Enter: Maguire. He was only available for two hours but still managed to film his small role. Fittingly, Downey Jr. and Maguire played characters who have a sexual tryst in <em>Wonder Boys</em>.</p><p>You may also like: <a href='https://www.yardbarker.com/entertainment/articles/the_films_that_have_the_absolute_worst_endings_030524/s1__33464903'>The films that have the absolute worst endings</a></p>

Tobey Maguire swooped in to save the day

The production needed a last-minute replacement for the actor starring alongside Kirk Lazarus in Satan’s Alley . Enter: Maguire. He was only available for two hours but still managed to film his small role. Fittingly, Downey Jr. and Maguire played characters who have a sexual tryst in Wonder Boys .

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<p>Brandon T. Jackson plays Alpa Chino, but the role was initially offered to Kevin Hart. However, Hart <a href="https://www.hollywoodreporter.com/news/general-news/kevin-hart-i-wont-play-764562/" rel="noopener noreferrer">turned down the role</a> because he did not want to play a gay character.</p><p><a href='https://www.msn.com/en-us/community/channel/vid-cj9pqbr0vn9in2b6ddcd8sfgpfq6x6utp44fssrv6mc2gtybw0us'>Follow us on MSN to see more of our exclusive entertainment content.</a></p>

A famous comedian turned down a role

Brandon T. Jackson plays Alpa Chino, but the role was initially offered to Kevin Hart. However, Hart turned down the role because he did not want to play a gay character.

<p>Coogan’s Damien Cockburn and his experience are purportedly partially inspired by the saga of South African director Richard Stanley. Stanley had been hired to direct<em> The Island of Dr. Moreau</em> but was beset by issues on set, including having to deal with Val Kilmer and Marlon Brando, two of the most difficult actors ever to walk the face of the Earth. He was fired and replaced by John Frankenheimer, but Stanley secretly returned to the shooting location to spy on the film. Hey, at least he wasn’t blown up by a landmine.</p><p>You may also like: <a href='https://www.yardbarker.com/entertainment/articles/musiciansbands_that_regularly_featured_unusual_instruments_011524/s1__39702681'>Musicians/bands that regularly feature(d) unusual instruments</a></p>

Steve Coogan’s character takes inspiration from a real director

Coogan’s Damien Cockburn and his experience are purportedly partially inspired by the saga of South African director Richard Stanley. Stanley had been hired to direct  The Island of Dr. Moreau but was beset by issues on set, including having to deal with Val Kilmer and Marlon Brando, two of the most difficult actors ever to walk the face of the Earth. He was fired and replaced by John Frankenheimer, but Stanley secretly returned to the shooting location to spy on the film. Hey, at least he wasn’t blown up by a landmine.

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<p>Black was offered the role of Jeff Portnoy, but he was initially hesitant. Specifically, he did not like the idea of dying his hair blonde. That ultimately didn’t keep him from doing the film, but he still expressed his displeasure with his hair in the movie. To add injury to insult, Black bruised his ribs early in production and had to gut it out.</p><p><a href='https://www.msn.com/en-us/community/channel/vid-cj9pqbr0vn9in2b6ddcd8sfgpfq6x6utp44fssrv6mc2gtybw0us'>Follow us on MSN to see more of our exclusive entertainment content.</a></p>

Jack Black wasn’t sure about doing the film

Black was offered the role of Jeff Portnoy, but he was initially hesitant. Specifically, he did not like the idea of dying his hair blonde. That ultimately didn’t keep him from doing the film, but he still expressed his displeasure with his hair in the movie. To add injury to insult, Black bruised his ribs early in production and had to gut it out.

<p>Stiller considered shooting in Southern California, Mexico, or Hawaii. He ended up choosing Hawaii. He shot on the island of Kaua’i, where he just so happened to own a home. The production was the first on the island in five years and was reportedly the largest film production in the history of Kaua’i.</p><p>You may also like: <a href='https://www.yardbarker.com/entertainment/articles/the_most_memorable_movies_that_take_place_mostly_underwater_022224/s1__38824562'>The most memorable movies that take place (mostly) underwater</a></p>

They shot in Hawaii

Stiller considered shooting in Southern California, Mexico, or Hawaii. He ended up choosing Hawaii. He shot on the island of Kaua’i, where he just so happened to own a home. The production was the first on the island in five years and was reportedly the largest film production in the history of Kaua’i.

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<p>After retiring from the Marine Corps, Dale Dye founded Warriors Inc., a company that provides military training and advisement on films. Over the years, Dye has worked on many serious movies and TV shows, such as <em>Platoon</em> and <em>Band of Brothers</em>. Dye and Warriors Inc. worked on <em>Tropic Thunder</em>. Stiller wasn’t sure how Dye would feel about the film, especially since Nick Nolte plays a character who effectively pokes fun at people like Dye. However, Dye relished the opportunity to work on a broad comedy.</p><p><a href='https://www.msn.com/en-us/community/channel/vid-cj9pqbr0vn9in2b6ddcd8sfgpfq6x6utp44fssrv6mc2gtybw0us'>Follow us on MSN to see more of our exclusive entertainment content.</a></p>

A revered military adviser worked on the movie

After retiring from the Marine Corps, Dale Dye founded Warriors Inc., a company that provides military training and advisement on films. Over the years, Dye has worked on many serious movies and TV shows, such as Platoon and Band of Brothers . Dye and Warriors Inc. worked on Tropic Thunder . Stiller wasn’t sure how Dye would feel about the film, especially since Nick Nolte plays a character who effectively pokes fun at people like Dye. However, Dye relished the opportunity to work on a broad comedy.

<p>The last scene shot for <em>Tropic Thunder</em>? That would be the commercial for Alpa Chino’s energy drink Booty Sweat. Also, it was shot early on Thanksgiving morning, and after filming, Brandon T. Jackson rushed to the airport to fly home to spend the holiday with his family. By the way, for a brief moment, Booty Sweat was available as a marketing promotion.</p><p>You may also like: <a href='https://www.yardbarker.com/entertainment/articles/25_horror_movies_that_were_based_on_true_stories_020824/s1__27521648'>25 horror movies that were based on true stories</a></p>

The last day of shooting was an unusual one

The last scene shot for Tropic Thunder ? That would be the commercial for Alpa Chino’s energy drink Booty Sweat. Also, it was shot early on Thanksgiving morning, and after filming, Brandon T. Jackson rushed to the airport to fly home to spend the holiday with his family. By the way, for a brief moment, Booty Sweat was available as a marketing promotion.

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<p>The war movie filmed in <em>Tropic Thunder</em> is quite gory, and the action gets all too real for the actors. However, this is not a movie with a terribly high body count, at least on screen. Two of the on-screen deaths are animals — a panda and a bat. The other is director Damien Cockburn, whose death is admittedly violent but resulted from an accident.</p><p><a href='https://www.msn.com/en-us/community/channel/vid-cj9pqbr0vn9in2b6ddcd8sfgpfq6x6utp44fssrv6mc2gtybw0us'>Follow us on MSN to see more of our exclusive entertainment content.</a></p>

There’s not a lot of death in the film

The war movie filmed in Tropic Thunder is quite gory, and the action gets all too real for the actors. However, this is not a movie with a terribly high body count, at least on screen. Two of the on-screen deaths are animals — a panda and a bat. The other is director Damien Cockburn, whose death is admittedly violent but resulted from an accident.

<p><em>Tropic Thunder</em> went all in on the marketing. Part of that was creating a mockumentary about the making of the film being made in <em>Tropic Thunder</em>. The film, which stars Theroux as the documentarian, is called <em>Rain of Madness</em> and serves as a parody of <em>Hearts of Darkness</em>, the iconic documentary about <em>Apocalypse Now</em>.</p><p>You may also like: <a href='https://www.yardbarker.com/entertainment/articles/the_25_essential_family_movies_103123/s1__39028652'>The 25 essential family movies</a></p>

A mockumentary was made for the movie

Tropic Thunder went all in on the marketing. Part of that was creating a mockumentary about the making of the film being made in Tropic Thunder . The film, which stars Theroux as the documentarian, is called Rain of Madness and serves as a parody of Hearts of Darkness , the iconic documentary about Apocalypse Now .

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<p><em>Tropic Thunder</em> was moved from a July release date to a mid-August release date, considered a less robust time for films. It was also a time when R-rated comedies had been hitting. The move paid off.<em> Tropic Thunder</em> was the top movie at the domestic box office for three weeks in a row. The film made $195.7 million worldwide from a budget of $92 million.</p><p><a href='https://www.msn.com/en-us/community/channel/vid-cj9pqbr0vn9in2b6ddcd8sfgpfq6x6utp44fssrv6mc2gtybw0us'>Follow us on MSN to see more of our exclusive entertainment content.</a></p>

It was a big box office hit

Tropic Thunder was moved from a July release date to a mid-August release date, considered a less robust time for films. It was also a time when R-rated comedies had been hitting. The move paid off.  Tropic Thunder was the top movie at the domestic box office for three weeks in a row. The film made $195.7 million worldwide from a budget of $92 million.

<p>The Golden Globes have categories for musical and comedy films, so the fact Downey and Cruise got nominations is not surprising. However, Downey was a big hit on the award circuit for <em>Tropic Thunder</em>. He was also nominated for a BAFTA, a SAG, and, yes, an Oscar. Downey did not win, losing to Heath Ledger for his turn as the Joker in <em>The Dark Knight</em>. A guy from a comic-book movie beat a guy from a comedy. It was a weird year for the Academy Awards.</p><p>You may also like: <a href='https://www.yardbarker.com/entertainment/articles/20_facts_you_might_not_know_about_the_empire_strikes_back_022224/s1__37680896'>20 facts you might not know about 'The Empire Strikes Back'</a></p>

The movie received a surprise Oscar nomination

The Golden Globes have categories for musical and comedy films, so the fact Downey and Cruise got nominations is not surprising. However, Downey was a big hit on the award circuit for Tropic Thunder . He was also nominated for a BAFTA, a SAG, and, yes, an Oscar. Downey did not win, losing to Heath Ledger for his turn as the Joker in The Dark Knight . A guy from a comic-book movie beat a guy from a comedy. It was a weird year for the Academy Awards.

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<p>Cruise loves playing Les Grossman. He played him at the 2010 MTV Movie Awards, and that year, talk of a spinoff movie about Grossman began. After years of laying fallow, it was reported in 2022 that Cruise and his go-to director Christopher McQuarrie are developing the spinoff once again.</p><p><a href='https://www.msn.com/en-us/community/channel/vid-cj9pqbr0vn9in2b6ddcd8sfgpfq6x6utp44fssrv6mc2gtybw0us'>Did you enjoy this slideshow? Follow us on MSN to see more of our exclusive entertainment content.</a></p>

There may be a spinoff

Cruise loves playing Les Grossman. He played him at the 2010 MTV Movie Awards, and that year, talk of a spinoff movie about Grossman began. After years of laying fallow, it was reported in 2022 that Cruise and his go-to director Christopher McQuarrie are developing the spinoff once again.

Did you enjoy this slideshow? Follow us on MSN to see more of our exclusive entertainment content.

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Tom Cruise's Les Grossman Character Is Finally Returning In The Best Way Possible

Les Grossman angry

Released in 2008, "Tropic Thunder" is one of the more polarizing comedy flicks to come out of the era. Sure, it boasts a stacked cast, including Robert Downey Jr., Jack Black, Ben Stiller, and more, and the idea of a bunch of actors ending up stranded in a dangerous jungle while filming their latest movie certainly has comedy potential. Although, things like  RDJ's character, Kirk Lazarus, wearing blackface for most of the film , and the portrayal of Tugg Speedman's (Stiller) Simple Jack character , have led many to take a second, more critical look at the film.

Still, Tom Cruise 's Les Grossman is as funny as ever.

A gruff, money-hungry studio executive stationed in Los Angeles, California, Grossman spends much of the film overseeing Speedman, Lazarus, and the rest of the crew's progress — or lack thereof. All the while, he throws child-like temper tantrums and shows next to no respect for those beneath him. Nevertheless, he's among the most fondly remembered parts of "Tropic Thunder" thanks to Cruise's eccentric approach to the character coupled with the makeup and prosthetics that make it hard to tell it's the "Mission: Impossible" star in the first place.

While a "Tropic Thunder 2" hasn't materialized up to this point, as it turns out, Les Grossman is finally going to make a comeback in the near future. Here's what we know.

Tom Cruise and Christopher McQuarrie are eager to bring Grossman back

As reported by Deadline on August 8, 2022, Tom Cruise and producer Christopher McQuarrie are putting together a handful of new projects. The first aligns more with Cruise's typical cinematic efforts since it's an action flick with the potential to become a franchise, and the second is an original song and dance-style musical that would give Cruise a nice break from his usual endeavors. As for the third, it will supposedly focus on Les Grossman in some form or fashion. Time will tell if this will put the character front-and-center in a production of his own or if he'll merely appear as a supporting player.

Talks of a Les Grossman spin-off date back to the early 2010s, with "Barry" star Bill Hader confirming in 2011 that it was even written (via MovieWeb ). However, as time went on, it never came to fruition, though Cruise has been vocal about wanting to return to the role in some form. "I don't know. I did Les Grossman for the MTV Awards...We'll have to see. That could be fun," he told ComicBook.com in May of 2022 of giving Grossman another shot, which, bearing in mind Deadline's report about Cruise and McQuarrie's next efforts, means we could be closer than ever to Grossman's triumphant return to the silver screen.

One can only hope that in the coming months, we hear more about all of Tom Cruise and Christopher McQuarrie's upcoming collaborations — the Les Grossman title, especially.

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Tom Cruise Revives Hilarious 'Tropic Thunder' Character, Reveals the Secret Behind Dance Moves

Over 10 years after playing the character on screen in  Tropic Thunder , Tom Cruise brought Les Grossman back to life

Dave Quinn is a Senior Editor for PEOPLE. He has been working at the brand since 2016, and is the author of the No. 1 New York Times best-selling book, Not All Diamonds and Rosé: The Inside Story of the Real Housewives from the People Who Lived It.

tropic thunder tom cruise rant

Tom Cruise may have surprised fans at Comic-Con with the first trailer to his upcoming Top Gun sequel , but it was another movie in his illustrious catalog that Conan O’Brien asked about when Cruise appeared on the comedian’s talk show Thursday night.

In the episode, which was broadcast from the annual entertainment convention, O’Brien, 56, asked Cruise to step back into the shoes of Les Grossman — the skeevy studio executive Cruise played over a decade ago in 2008’s Tropic Thunder.

The actor, 57, was happy to oblige, showing off some of Grossman’s infamous dance moves.

Turns out, Cruise himself had pushed director Ben Stiller to incorporate those dance moves, as well as Grossman’s fat-suit, when he was first approached to play the role.

“I take classes all the time to learn things or I want to improve a skill, whether it’s singing, music — whatever subject I’m studying. So I take dance classes and I took hip-hop classes. And then what I find is, I’ll find a character to put that with,” Cruise explained on Conan, recalling how he told Stiller, ” ‘I’d love to play this character but I want to have fat hands and I’m going to dance.’ ”

“Sometimes with a character you just get an instinct about what you’re going to do,” Cruise added.

Stiller, according to Cruise, wasn’t completely on board with Cruise’s vision.

“For a couple of months he kept saying, ‘Maybe we don’t do the makeup. Maybe you just look like yourself,’ ” Cruise remembered. “And I said, ‘No, I need fat hands and I’m going to dance.’ ”

After the makeup was created, Cruise said finding Grossman was easy. “As you’re working on a character, you start becoming that character, you start discovering that character. And I just, I just started moving,” Cruise said, adding that Stiller was still confused. “There was no music. He was just looking at me like, ‘What’s happening.’ I was crushing Pepsi cans and Coke cans.”

Once Stiller added music to the scene though (specifically, Ludacris’s “Get Back”), he understood what Cruise wanted.

“He calls me the next day and cut it to that piece of music you see in the movie. And he said, ‘I get it, I get it, I get it. This is hilarious,’ ” Cruise shared.

Tropic Thunder earned Cruise a Golden Globe action nomination. The film also starred Jack Black, Robert Downey Jr., Jay Baruchel and Brandon T. Jackson.

Later on Conan , Cruise recited Grossman’s more colorful lines. “Stand back and literally f— your own face,” Cruise said, to the cheers of the crowd. “I will f— you up! I will massacre you!”

And though the next few movies Cruise has on his slate are action-based (including the aforementioned Top Gun: Maverick ), Cruise said comedy — and Les Grossman — will always have a special place in his heart.

“I love comedy,” Cruise said. “I used to write sketches when I was a little kid and would do imitations to make my mother and sisters laugh.”

“Les Grossman was a funny character,” he added. “That was a wild character. That was wild.”

Top Gun: Maverick is set for a June 26, 2020 release.

Jack Black wants Tropic Thunder co-star Tom Cruise to do another comedy with him

Exclusive: Jack Black talks to Total Film about Tom Cruise's role as Les Grossman in Tropic Thunder

Tom Cruise as Les Grossman in Tropic Thunder

Over multiple decades, Tom Cruise has shown us the money, felt the need for speed, and everything else in-between. One of his most beloved roles, Tropic Thunder's wildly obnoxious movie executive Les Grossman, also proved he has comedic chops in spades.

Speaking to Total Film in our new issue , which features Dune 2 on the cover and is out this Thursday, co-star Jack Black recounts the character for our 'My Life in Pictures' feature.

"Tom Cruise was unrecognisable as Les Grossman. He was really channelling some angst, I think, about some studio executives that shall remain nameless," Black says. 

"I just didn’t know he had that gear in him. I guess he had done some comedy but not like this, with such broad strokes. And not such a character that he totally disappeared into."

Might we see Cruise tap into his funny bone once more? If so, he has a willing and ready comedy partner in Jack Black. 

"It does make you wonder when he is going to bust out and do some more comedy," Black says. "If he does, he should let me know. I’ll jump on board that choo-choo train."

  • Pre-order the Dune 2 issue of Total Film

Elsewhere in our conversation, Black also opened up his thoughts on the reviews of The Super Mario Bros. Movie , as well as about his role in the upcoming Minecraft film . "They’re both video game related but in terms of approach, live action is a different ball of wax," Black adds.

You can hear more from Jack Black, and a whole lot else besides, in the new issue of Total Film when it hits shelves and digital newsstands on Thursday, February 1. Check out the covers below:

Pre-order the issue here to bag your copy, or click here to subscribe to Total Film and never miss another exclusive. You'll get every issue before it's in stores, and you’ll get subscriber-exclusive covers.

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tropic thunder tom cruise rant

Tom Cruise isn’t known for comedy, but he does have it on his resume. Tonight on Conan , he resurrected his Tropic Thunder  character Les Grossman’s dance moves and colorful language.

Cruise is making the rounds after a surprise appearance at Comic-Con today, but decided to focus in his Conan segment on comedy, a lesser-known aspect of his talents.

The 2008 action-comedy Tropic Thunder , directed and starring Ben Stiller , featured Cruise along with Jack Black, Robert Downey Jr., Jay Baruchel and Brandon T. Jackson as a group of actors making a Vietnam War film. The prima donnas are dropped in the middle of a jungle and have to use their acting skills to survive.

One of the memorable moments was from Cruise, who received a Golden Globe nomination for Best Supporting Actor – Motion Picture for his efforts in the film.

Cruise told Conan that he did imitations as a kid, but relished the chance to take on the role of Grossman, a demanding studio executive who dances during the end credits to Ludacris’s “Get Back.”

“Les Grossman is a fun character,” Cruise said, and talked about taking hip-hop classes to prepare for the role. He told Stiller that if he appeared in the film, “I’m going to dance. And I need fat hands.”

Watch the video below for more on how he stepped outside his usual acting zone.   

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Screen Rant

Yes more les grossman is exactly what tom cruise needs after m:i8.

Tom Cruise is Hollywood's biggest action star, but a return to his Tropic Thunder comedy character, Les Grossman, is perfect for his next movie.

Tom Cruise ’s latest movies have seen the megastar reprise his most famous characters, and a surprise return as Tropic Thunder ’s Les Grossman would be perfect for his next role. Recently, Cruise has brought back his most famous character Captain Pete “Maverick” Mitchell, in Top Gun: Maverick , and is set to bring back Ethan Hunt in Mission: Impossible - Dead Reckoning Part 1 and Part Mission: Impossible - Dead Reckoning Part 2 . Reports suggest that Tom Cruise is keen to continue working with the director and frequent collaborator Christopher McQuarrie and a Les Grossman movie has been earmarked as a future project for the two.

Starring Ben Stiller, Jack Black, and Robert Downey Jr., Tropic Thunder has become a cult classic since its 2008 release. The controversial comedy follows a group of spoiled actors who are flown to Southeast Asia to make a guerilla-style war film named Tropic Thunder but soon find themselves in real danger. Tom Cruise has a small but memorable role as Les Grossman, the short-tempered, potty-mouthed producer of Tropic Thunder who takes all the credit for success and blames everyone else when things go wrong.

Related: Tom Cruise's Mission Impossible Demands Make His Strangest Role Funnier

With Top Gun: Maverick and the upcoming Mission: Impossible movies, Tom Cruise has continued to push the boundaries regarding world-leading stunts and action . But really, there isn’t much more for Cruise to do in the genre, especially as he enters his 60s. That’s why when his latest run of action movies comes to an end with Mission: Impossible 8 , it's the perfect time to switch to a comedy character and bring back Les Grossman.

Will Tropic Thunder 2 Happen, Or Spinoff Movie?

Recently, classic modern comedies like Anchorman: The Legend of Ron Burgundy and Zoolander have had belated sequels. While Tropic Thunder 2 can't be ruled out, it's unlikely that Les Grossman's return will come in a direct sequel to the 2008 movie. Tropic Thunder neatly wraps up its main character arcs from a storyline perspective, so there is little reason to bring the whole cast back. But arguably, the biggest blocker to Tropic Thunder 2 is the same type of humor used in the original movie would not be repeated today. Tropic Thunder was subject to several controversies, including Robert Downey Jr's use of blackface and Ben Stiller's portrayal of intellectual disabilities, which make it challenging to see Tropic Thunder 2 being produced.

A spinoff movie for Les Grossman may be the best way to bring back Tom Cruise's character anyway. Grossman could benefit from a similar return to Daniel Craig's Benoit Blanc from Knives Out , who is set to come back with a completely new cast of characters in Glass Onion: A Knives Out Mystery . Keeping Grossman in a film-making industry setting but with a different group of subordinates to berate will be a good way to keep the Tropic Thunder character fresh and give Tom Cruise original material to work with at the same time.

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  1. The 30 Most Legendary Rants In Movie History

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  2. Tropic Thunder 10 years later: Les Grossman, Tom Cruise's best role in

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  3. Tropic Thunder (2008)

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  5. Tom Cruise as Les Grossman from Tropic Thunder

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VIDEO

  1. Amazing Tropic Thunder Moment: Tom Cruise's Dance to 'Low' by Flo Rida and T-Pain #tomcruise

  2. Tropic Thunder

  3. Joe Rogan: Tropic Thunder Beats Forrest Gump! #shorts

  4. Tropic Thunder (5/10) Movie CLIP

  5. Tom Cruise Talks About Playing Less Grossman In Tropic Thunder

  6. Tropic Thunder

COMMENTS

  1. The Truth About Tom Cruise's Character In 'Tropic Thunder'

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  2. Tropic Thunder

    An epic scene of Les Grossman yelling at Flaming Dragons."Now, I want you to take a step back and literally fuck your own face! I don't know what kind of Pan...

  3. Les Grossman: [incensed at Flaming Dragon's demands] Okay Flaming

    A great memorable quote from the Tropic Thunder movie on Quotes.net - Les Grossman: [incensed at Flaming Dragon's demands] Okay Flaming Dragon, f***face. First, take a big step back... and literally f*** your own face! I don't know what kind of pan-Pacific bullshit power play you're trying to pull here, but Asia, Jack, is my territory. So whatever you're thinking, you'd better think again!

  4. This Unexpected Cameo Is Tom Cruise's Best Performance Ever

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  5. Tropic Thunder (2008)

    You're gonna have to call the fucking United Nations and get a fucking binding resolution to keep me from fucking destroying you. I'm talking scorched earth, motherfucker! I will massacre you! I WILL FUCK YOU UP! Les Grossman : Now I want you to take a step back... and literally fuck your own face!

  6. Tropic Thunder: How Tom Cruise revived his career as Less Grossman in

    15 years ago, Tom Cruise revived his career with an uncredited role in Tropic Thunder. After a string of controversies and a split from longtime studio Paramount, Cruise was slipping out of favour ...

  7. Tom Cruise Crosses Over To Mario Movie With Epic R-Rated Rant

    The video sees Tom Cruise's Tropic Thunder character Les Grossman as the film's Mario, recreating one of his most iconic rants in which he delivers an R-rated threat to who he thinks is trying to poach one of his clients, now replaced by Bowser Jr. demanding a ransom for Peach's safe return. Check out the hilarious fan edit above: Related: 7 Movies & Shows That Prove The Video Game Adaptation ...

  8. Why Ben Stiller Wanted To Cut Tom Cruise's Tropic Thunder Dance

    Tom Cruise's Tropic Thunder dance is one of the most famous scenes from the movie, but director Ben Stiller had to be talked into filming it. Tropic Thunder is a 2008 all-star action-comedy, where a group of pampered movie stars making a Vietnam war movie run afoul of a drug cartel in the Golden Triangle. The movie received mostly good reviews and was a solid hit, but while it can be genuinely ...

  9. Tom Cruise's Mission Impossible Demands Make His ...

    If Tom Cruise's publicized Mission: Impossible demands prove anything, it's that his bizarre Tropic Thunder role as Les Grossman is even funnier than before. Cruise's Les Grossman is the studio executive for Tropic Thunder's eponymous project who is characterized by his explosive outbursts while on the phone.By also donning a fat suit, fake large hands, bald cap, and extra-hairy chest, Cruise ...

  10. What Tom Cruise's COVID-19 Rant Really Means

    December 18, 2020. In the 2008 comedy Tropic Thunder, Tom Cruise stole scenes by mocking Hollywood's entitlement. As the cocksure, foulmouthed studio exec Les Grossman, Cruise put on a fat suit ...

  11. How Tom Cruise's bizarre 'Tropic Thunder' character was created

    Tom Cruise as Les Grossman in "Tropic Thunder." One of the highlights of the 2008 Ben Stiller comedy "Tropic Thunder" is Les Grossman, the venom-spewing, Diet Coke-drinking studio head who ...

  12. Tropic Thunder Negotiating with Kidnappers/Terrorists

    Les Grossman deals with Flaming Dragon

  13. Tom Cruise in the Tropic Thunder

    This is the best scene with Tom Cruise as Les Grossman in the comedy hit "Tropic Thunder". You will watch here the best quotes, such as "I will f*ck you up!"...

  14. Tom Cruise Discusses Reprising Role As Tropic Thunder's Les Grossman

    Tom Cruise discusses the possibility of reprising his role as Tropic Thunder's vulgar studio executive Les Grossman. In his 40+-year acting career, Cruise has portrayed many iconic characters—from Jerry Maguire and Mission Impossible's Ethan Hunt to naval aviator extraordinaire Pete "Maverick" Mitchell in 1986's Top Gun.Now, 36 years after first appearing in Tony Scott's action flick ...

  15. 20 facts you might not know about 'Tropic Thunder'

    Tropic Thunder wouldn't be released until 2008, but Stiller first got the idea decades earlier. The actor-turned-director got the first germ for the concept while acting in the war movie Empire ...

  16. Tom Cruise's Les Grossman Character Is Finally Returning In ...

    Tom Cruise's Les Grossman Character Is Finally Returning In The Best Way Possible. Paramount Pictures. By Shane O'Neill / Aug. 8, 2022 7:05 pm EST. Released in 2008, "Tropic Thunder" is one of the ...

  17. Tom Cruise Revives Tropic Thunder Character, Dance Moves and All

    Tom Cruise. Albert L. Ortega/Getty. Tropic Thunder earned Cruise a Golden Globe action nomination. The film also starred Jack Black, Robert Downey Jr., Jay Baruchel and Brandon T. Jackson. Later ...

  18. Jack Black wants Tropic Thunder co-star Tom Cruise to do another comedy

    Exclusive: Jack Black talks to Total Film about Tom Cruise's role as Les Grossman in Tropic Thunder. Over multiple decades, Tom Cruise has shown us the money, felt the need for speed, and ...

  19. Tom Cruise's 'Tropic Thunder' Spin-Off Has a Script

    By Chris Schrader. Published Apr 12, 2011. The 'Tropic Thunder' spin-off featuring Tom Cruise's Les Grossman character now has a script, but when will the film actually get made, and will Cruise still be interested? A few years ago, Tom Cruise stopped being famous for starring in blockbuster movies and was instead making headlines because of ...

  20. Les Grossman (BEST MOMENTS)

    Check out the funniest scenes from Tom Cruise's hilarious cameo, as Les Grossman in 200's Tropic Thunder. TM & © Paramount PicturesFair use.Copyright Disc...

  21. Tom Cruise Tells 'Conan' About His 'Tropic Thunder' Dance Moves

    The 2008 action-comedy Tropic Thunder, directed and starring Ben Stiller, featured Cruise along with Jack Black, Robert Downey Jr., Jay Baruchel and Brandon T. Jackson as a group of actors making ...

  22. Tom Cruise Wants To Make Les Grossman Tropic Thunder Spinoff

    Tom Cruise is reportedly interested in developing some type of Tropic Thunder spinoff involving his character, Les Grossman. Released in 2008, Tropic Thunder tells the story of a group of actors who attempt to set off into the jungle to create the greatest Vietnam War movie ever made. Directed and starring Ben Stiller, Tropic Thunder proved generally popular with both audiences and critics and ...

  23. Tom Cruise's Dance in Tropic Thunder (2008) #tomcruise # ...

    535 Likes, TikTok video from James Rader (@james_m_rader): "Tom Cruise's Dance in Tropic Thunder (2008) #tomcruise #tomcruiseedit #tomcruisemovie #lesgrossman #tropicthunder #tropicthundermovie #bestmusicmoment #getback #ludacris". Tropic Thunder 2008. Best Music Moment in a Movie Part 148Best Music Moment in a Movie Part 148 | Tropic Thunder (2008)Get Back - Instrumental - Instrumental ...

  24. Yes! More Les Grossman Is Exactly What Tom Cruise Needs After M:I8

    Tom Cruise has a small but memorable role as Les Grossman, the short-tempered, potty-mouthed producer of Tropic Thunder who takes all the credit for success and blames everyone else when things go wrong. With Top Gun: Maverick and the upcoming Mission: Impossible movies, Tom Cruise has continued to push the boundaries regarding world-leading ...

  25. Tropic Thunder Ending / Tom Cruise Dance Scene

    Tropic Thunder Ending / Tom Cruise Dance Scene