Celebrated actor, Tom Cruise has broken his long-standing silence on ex-wife Nicole Kidman, offering rare public praise over two decades after their high-profile split.

In a new interview with the British Film Institute’s Sight and Sound magazine, the “Top Gun: Maverick” star, now 62, reflected on his collaboration with director Stanley Kubrick on the 1999 psychological drama “Eyes Wide Shut.”

During the conversation, Cruise shared an unexpected detail—he was the one who suggested Kidman for the role of Alice. “It was basically he and I getting to know each other,” Cruise said. “And when we were doing that, I suggested Nicole play the role [of Alice]. Because obviously she’s a great actress.”

The film, a sexually charged thriller that starred Cruise and Kidman as a troubled married couple, marked one of their final joint projects before their divorce in 2001. While Cruise’s remarks appear complimentary, they have reopened old wounds for some fans.

The actor’s comments sparked swift backlash online. Critics questioned his motives and timing, with many voicing skepticism over the sudden acknowledgment. “Why now?? Keep quiet don’t say nothing from anyone. He is not really a nice guy,” one person wrote.

Another added, “She got the best man compared to him. Tom Cruise is nothing compared to her hubby now.” Others didn’t mince words, accusing Cruise of past wrongdoings. “He really did her dirty,” read one blunt remark. Another wrote, “How sad,” while one user commented, “Can’t stand him.”

The criticism continued: “Nicole dodged a bullet by divorcing his nonsense.” Another voice chimed in with, “I doubt she cares much about what he has to say about her. She has built a beautiful life with Keith Urban.”

Cruise and Kidman were married for a decade. The pair officially divorced in 2001, marking the end of one of the most closely watched unions in Hollywood.

Following their separation, both actors moved forward with new chapters in their personal lives. Kidman found lasting love with country music star Keith Urban. The two have since built a quiet, and enduring partnership.

Cruise, meanwhile, entered into another high-profile marriage with actress Katie Holmes. However, their relationship, too, did not endure. The couple split in 2012, ending another public love story.

More recently, Cruise has sparked speculation over a possible new relationship. The actor has been romantically linked to Spanish star Ana de Armas. A video circulating online shows the pair walking together on her birthday, accompanied by a group of the actress’s friends.

The pair sparked romance rumors a few months ago after they were spotted together in London, England. At the time, Netizens have also discussed the matter, marveling at how similar the actress looks to his famous ex.

Dressed in his signature effortlessly cool style, Cruise was all smiles as he made his way through the transportation venue. He sported a relaxed yet put-together look, donning a dark, slightly unbuttoned shirt that subtly highlighted his fit physique.

The actor paired this with black pants. A black backpack was slung casually over his shoulder, adding a practical touch to his ensemble, while he carried a matching jacket in one hand.

His trademark tousled hair, slightly windblown, gave him the look of a man constantly on the move. Cruise’s charismatic energy was palpable as he engaged with those around him.

Walking beside him, de Armas radiated an understated elegance. The “Deep Water” star donned a long, dark coat that added a sophisticated edge to her ensemble. Underneath, a simple yet stylish top peeked through. Her long brunette locks cascaded over her shoulders, framing her radiant complexion.

Pairing the look with white sneakers, de Armas balanced high fashion with comfort, her soft smile and confident stride exuding an aura of quiet star power.

According to media outlet Deuxmoi, Cruise and de Armas were spotted “together for the second day in a row,” fueling speculations about a possible romance brewing between the two.

As images of Tom Cruise and de Armas surfaced online, it didn’t take long for social media to erupt with reactions — especially regarding de Armas’ resemblance to Cruise’s famous ex-wife, Katie Holmes.

“She’s looking like his ex Katie Holmes 🤔,” one person remarked, sparking a flurry of agreement from others. Another echoed the sentiment, stating, “She looks like a young version of his ex-wife, Katie Homes.”

This prompted an immediate response from a Facebooker, who enthusiastically chimed, “that’s [sic] what I was about to say!! You are right.”

The comparisons continued to roll in, with one netizen declaring, “Another Katie both are natural brown hair [sic],” while another succinctly labeled de Armas as, “Katie Holmes 2 😮.” Others took the discussion a step further, speculating on Cruise’s romantic preferences, as one commenter observed, “He’s got a type.”

While much of the conversation revolved around the resemblance to Katie Holmes, some fans focused on a different aspect — how well the two actors looked together. One admirer gushed, “That’s a very attractive couple!”

While de Armas and Cruise being spotted out together may be recent, public buzz about the actor’s love life is nothing new./By Naomi Wanjala

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