Simon Pegg, renowned British actor, recently shared insights into his friendship with co-star Tom Cruise in the hit film Mission: Impossible – Fallout.
While Pegg considers Cruise a close friend, he consciously avoids delving into the movie star’s spiritual inclinations, specifically his affiliation with the Church of Scientology.
Pegg believes that discussing such matters would be an abuse of his privileged access to Cruise, a notion he expressed during his appearance on BBC Radio 4’s Desert Island Discs, hosted by Lauren Laverne.
Delicately navigating the topic, Pegg, aged 53, conveyed the simplicity and amiability of his bond with Cruise, emphasizing the authenticity that exists beyond the elaborate mythology that often surrounds celebrities of Cruise’s stature.
He disclosed, “It’s always been a very easy relationship. I think you realize, when you meet the person rather than the thicket of mythology that’s built up around them, it’s a different experience.”
Pegg further acknowledged Cruise’s fervor for fame, highlighting how it invigorates and propels him forward.
However, Pegg himself expressed hesitations about embracing the same level of renown, recognizing the overwhelming nature and potential stress associated with it.
The actor humorously conveyed his perspective on the matter, stating, “I don’t think I would appreciate that particularly. I’d find that very stressful and overwhelming.”
Amidst the circus-like atmosphere surrounding Cruise, Pegg remarked that the actor possesses a certain level of awareness and embraces the absurdity of it all.
This shared understanding often leads to lighthearted exchanges and laughter between the two friends.
Pegg playfully confessed, “We joke about it. I mean, I always make fun of him for it, you know, about the things that he can access.”
During their recent break from filming in South Africa, Pegg narrated an intriguing incident involving Cruise’s penchant for adventure.
The iconic movie star decided to indulge in swimming with sharks, leading to an exciting helicopter ride to a coastal region of the country.
Pegg whimsically referred to the experience as “a real Tom Cruise kind of day,” accentuating its thrilling and audacious nature.
Beyond their professional camaraderie, Pegg also opened up about his personal struggles with depression and alcoholism during the interview.
Reflecting on his time working on Mission: Impossible III in 2006, he confessed to feeling an inexplicable sense of panic and distress, despite being in the midst of his long-held aspirations.
It was during this period that he realized the gravity of his depression and the need to confront it instead of resorting to unhealthy coping mechanisms, such as alcohol.
Pegg candidly discussed the challenges of concealing his troubles, illustrating the deceptive nature of addiction.
He shared, “You learn how to do it without anyone noticing because it takes over. It wants to sustain itself and it will do everything it can to not be stopped.”
Recognizing the impact on his loved ones, Pegg acknowledged the turning point in his life, particularly with the birth of his daughter Matilda in 2009.
Around 2010, he committed to making positive changes, seeking help, quitting drinking, and addressing the underlying causes of his destructive behavior.
Ultimately, Pegg triumphed over his personal demons, realizing the importance of seeking assistance and finding healthier ways to cope.
His story serves as a reminder that even in the midst of stardom and success, one’s inner battles can loom large, necessitating self-reflection and the willingness to make transformative choices.
