Tom Cruise’s Legacy: Why Fans Think No One Could Replace Him in ‘Mission: Impossible
‘No Replication’: Fans Say It ‘Wouldn’t Be the Same’ If Tom Cruise’s ‘Top Gun: Maverick’ Co-Star Replaced Him in the ‘Mission: Impossible’ Franchise
Arriving in theaters on May 23, 2025, “Mission: Impossible – The Final Reckoning” stars Tom Cruise in what may be his last appearance as Ethan Hunt.
Longtime fans have reacted strongly to reports that Tom Cruise is considering replacing Glen Powell, his co-star from “Top Gun: Maverick,” as the main character in the “Mission: Impossible” franchise.
In an interview with ESPN’s Pat McAfee, Powell addressed the rumors that he would take Cruise’s place. The notion seemed to be playfully dismissed by the 36-year-old, who said, “My mom would never let me do that.”
The risky “Mission: Impossible” franchise was also mockingly referred to by him as “the worst gig in town, everybody knows that.” Powell continued, “That’s a death trap,” referring to the fact that Cruise does his own stunts in the action series, including riding a motorcycle off a cliff and scaling large buildings.
Regarding Powell’s potential replacement for Cruise in “Mission: Impossible,” fans had strong opinions, with some being vehemently against the idea. According to one admirer, “Nobody can replace Tom Cruise in the Mission Impossible franchise.” “I want Tom Cruise to always start in the Mission Impossible movies,” someone else remarked. wouldn’t be the same in his absence.
With a forceful position, someone said, “I wouldn’t be watching. I think it’s crazy that Hollywood would want to force certain actors on you. Others expressed their worries that Powell would take over, saying, “Glen will destroy Tom Cruise’s legacy.” He shouldn’t be worthy of it.
“I love Glen Powell, but I do not think he’s gonna learn how to fly a helicopter or jump out of a plane to take over the MI franchise,” another fan said, expressing affection but also expressing skepticism. One of them is Tom Cruise. No duplication. No replacement. “It just wouldn’t be the same without Tom,” a dedicated admirer wrote.
“Why? Someone else said, “Castle led this franchise; he should wrap it up.” “No one will ever truly do it better than Tom Cruise,” an admirer wrote, expressing Powell’s potential despite the opposition. I think Glen Powell would be a great candidate.
As one fan put it, “No no no… I have nothing against Glen Powell,” the general consensus was to terminate the franchise with Tom Cruise. I adore his talent as an actor, but you can’t take Ethan Hunt’s place in his own franchise. That franchise is Tom Cruise. Let it die if Cruise decides to step down. Write a satisfying conclusion. Please, not like this. Let it end honorably.
Fans of “Mission Impossible” were ecstatic when the trailer for the next “Mission: Impossible – The Final Reckoning” was released on November 1. The teaser teases Hunt’s most difficult task to date and is full of thrilling stunts and high-stakes action. In what could be Cruise’s last appearance as the legendary agent, it promises an epic showdown.
The majority of admirers conveyed gratitude for Cruise and the renowned franchise he co-founded. As they were ready for the series’ possible conclusion, they also expressed strong emotions and a great deal of nostalgia.
“One last Rodeo,” exclaimed one ecstatic fan. from youth to adolescence to maturity. “Thank you, Tom.” In the most recent series, Cruise was cited by another fan as saying, “I need you to believe me one final time… Tom has sent us a direct message. Indeed, we do. We shall definitely miss this series 😢.
Some lifelong fans were moved by the upcoming film and exclaimed, “Geez, why am I crying? I’ve loved these films since I was eight years old, when I would repeatedly watch the first one on VHS.
Tom Cruise is my favorite actor and action star, and I adore how much of himself he contributes to keep us, the audience, amused all the time,” the admirer also exclaimed. I hope they have a spectacular exit if this is the last assignment! 😨.
Others were prepared to honor the heritage of “Mission: Impossible,” saying, “I must admit that if this is the final Mission Impossible movie, this series will go down as the best action franchise ever.” We are grateful to Tom Cruise and the incredible crew who made each of these movies.
Finally, one fan said, “Tom Cruise has put everything into these movies,” which encapsulated how many people seemed to feel. One final journey. Tom Cruise, thank you.
According to reports, Cruise is placing his faith in Powell, who has previously spoken favorably of him, as he prepares for what may be his final journey. Cruise is “a great friend and a great supporter,” according to Powell, who has been there for him when he needed him.
“He’s been just a guy that’s changed my life in more ways than I can tell you,” Powell said. The “Twisters” star is thankful to receive Cruise’s advice as he has already experienced this path, even though he is unsure of how his acting career will unfold.
The connection between Cruise and Powell has grown since they worked together on the 2022 action movie “Top Gun: Maverick.” The movie actor, who Powell views as his “great mentor,” plays a unique role in his life.
Working on “Top Gun: Maverick” with Cruise was a life-changing experience, according to Glen Powell, who reflected on it. He learned a lot about making a blockbuster from the production, and he used many of those skills to “Twisters,” which he felt significantly enhanced the movie.
Powell revealed that he had personally invited Cruise as a sincere sign of their friendship, and Cruise attended the London premiere of “Twisters” to offer his support. A happy Cruise wrote, “Fun night with friends, watching a movie!!” as the caption on a photo of the two of them at the premiere.
