The Hollywood star and action icon reportedly refused a green-screen afterlife, insisting audiences would be able to tell if the ascension was computer-generated.
LOS ANGELES — Tom Cruise, the relentless Hollywood star who anchored the "Mission: Impossible" franchise, died Thursday at age 62 after plummeting from the literal gates of Heaven during a practical-effects stunt.
Cruise, who held the industry record for sprinting on camera, reportedly located the metaphysical entrance to the afterlife early last week. Production sources stated he dismissed suggestions to use a celestial green screen, opting instead to free-solo the 4,000-foot pearly structure to ensure theatergoers felt the authentic stakes of eternal salvation. The actor lost his grip near the apex of St. Peter's antechamber, suffering a fatal, secondary death upon impact with the earthly plane.
Tom always believed that if you are going to ascend to the kingdom of the Almighty, audiences need to see your real muscles straining against the divine light.
He is survived by three children, a deeply traumatized heavenly host, and a team of Paramount executives currently trying to salvage the footage. Memorial services will be held in 70mm IMAX theaters nationwide.