In the fast-paced world of Hollywood, where relationships often fade with the end credits, a heartwarming tradition between two stars has stood the test of time. Actor Dakota Fanning has revealed that her former co-star, the iconic Tom Cruise, has sent her a birthday gift every single year for nearly two decades, a practice that began when she was just a child.
A Tradition Born on Set
The story began on the set of Steven Spielberg's 2005 blockbuster, 'War of the Worlds'. Fanning, then only 11 years old, played the on-screen daughter to Cruise's character. The bond formed during filming clearly extended far beyond the movie. Fanning shared this personal anecdote during an appearance on 'Watch What Happens Live with Andy Cohen' on Thursday, November 6.
Host Andy Cohen directly asked if the birthday gift tradition was still ongoing. Fanning immediately confirmed with a smile, "Yes, he does." When pressed for details about the gifts, her answer was charmingly straightforward: "Really nice shoes."
More Than Just Footwear: A Thoughtful Gesture
Fellow guest Brittany Snow, present to promote her show 'All Her Fault', was intrigued and had immediate questions about the type of shoes. Fanning laughed and kept her description simple, clarifying, "They're just... nice shoes." She added a remarkable detail: Cruise has meticulously kept up with her changing shoe size over the years. "It has changed," she said. "And he's adapted. He's adapted."
This annual ritual of shoes wasn't even the first significant gift. In a prior interview with Harper's Bazaar, Fanning disclosed that for her 11th birthday, Cruise gifted her a Motorola Razr, her very first mobile phone. "I loved it. I felt so cool," she recalled. That gesture seemingly set the precedent for the yearly tradition that followed.
A Lasting Connection in a Transient Industry
This consistent, low-key gesture highlights a genuine and enduring connection that has survived nearly 20 years, contrasting sharply with Hollywood's often fleeting relationships. For Fanning, now a successful actress in her own right, the annual gift is a tangible reminder of a formative professional experience and a kindness that began in her childhood.
The story is a simple yet powerful testament to loyalty and thoughtfulness, showing a different, more personal side of a global superstar. It underscores how small, consistent acts can forge bonds that last a lifetime, even under the bright lights of fame.
