Remembering Newman

I just read an article in the October issue of People magazine that was written by the actor, Tom Cruise. The article was all about Paul Newman and the lasting impression he had made on Tom Cruise. Cruise stated that his first oppotunity to work with Paul Newman was in the film "The Color of Money," acting in the lead role opposite the "bigger than life" actor. Cruise was surprised to learn that Newman, despite his fame and iconic stature, was "incredibly down-to-earth and real." He also said that Newman had an amazing sense of humor that he seemed to use in his approach towards life and even towards himself. Cruise remarked that after filming "The Color of Money", Newman and he became lifelong friends. Newman gave Tom the nickname "Cruiser" and he also liked to call him "Kid". He tells a story about going to dinner at the Newman's home and that Paul, himself, cooked for the entire crowd. Once on New Year's Eve they all gathered around the piano to sing with the entire family. Cruise says that it was Newman who got him involved in car racing and he even gave Cruise the chance to race on Newman's team. The hugely successful actor, Tom Cruise, remembers Paul Newman as a "great movie star, a great actor and a great family man...And then on top of it all, he became a great philanthropist." But above all, Tom says that the greatest gift that Paul gave him was his friendship. Speaking very candidly after the news of Paul Newman's passing on September 26, 2008, Tom Cruise said that he felt he had lost a personal idol of his.

Cruise, Tom. "Remembering Newman." People Magazine. 13 October 2008: 66.