Dakota Fanning has revealed a heartwarming tradition she shares with her War of the Worlds co-star Tom Cruise, who has gifted her a pair of shoes every year for her birthday over the past two decades. The actress disclosed this touching gesture during an interview to promote her upcoming thriller mini-series, All Her Fault, where she portrays a mother embarking on a desperate quest to rescue a kidnapped child.
Tom Cruise’s Thoughtful Gift Tradition
While discussing her new role, Fanning reflected on her time working with Cruise. She explained that the tradition of receiving shoes began on her twelfth birthday. “Yeah, he sends me beautiful shoes. It’s a tradition that started, I think, on my 12th birthday,” Fanning shared. At that time, she was just beginning to fit into adult-sized shoes, and her enthusiasm for footwear has only grown since.
The 31-year-old actress expressed her appreciation for Cruise’s thoughtful gifts, noting, “He’s got good taste.” Fanning emphasized that she not only cherishes the shoes but also wears them, adding, “But I’ll keep them forever. It’s such a great memory, and it’s a way that he checks in with me every year. It’s really generous.” This consistent gesture highlights the bond formed between the two actors during their collaboration on the 2005 film.
A Look Back at War of the Worlds
War of the Worlds, directed by Steven Spielberg, is a critically acclaimed sci-fi thriller that features Cruise as a father attempting to reconnect with his estranged children amidst a catastrophic alien invasion. The film showcases the intense dynamics of familial relationships under extreme circumstances, making it a memorable project for both actors.
As Fanning prepares for the release of All Her Fault on November 6, 2025, she continues to reflect on the lessons learned from her time with Cruise. The series, which will stream on Peacock, promises to engage audiences with its gripping storyline and emotional depth.
Fanning’s heartfelt tribute to Cruise not only underscores their professional relationship but also highlights the enduring connections that can form in the entertainment industry. As she embarks on this new chapter in her career, her appreciation for these annual gifts reminds fans of the personal touches that often accompany Hollywood friendships.
