Steven Spielberg and the Scientology Saga: A Rift with Tom Cruise

For decades, Scientology has sparked controversy, often linked to its celebrity followers. While stars like Tom Cruise and John Travolta are prominent advocates, others, such as Leah Remini and Laura Prepon, have exposed the darker side of the Church after leaving it.

Less known are the celebrities almost drawn into Scientology, including Steven Spielberg, who reportedly refused recruitment efforts by Tom Cruise. This refusal allegedly caused a long-lasting rift between the two Hollywood icons.

The story dates back to the mid-2000s when Cruise was at the peak of his career and deeply involved in Scientology. According to reports, Cruise tried to introduce Spielberg to the Church during the filming of War of the Worlds, which Spielberg directed.

The attempt failed, and tensions escalated between them. Cruise’s public behavior at the time, including his infamous couch-jumping incident on The Oprah Winfrey Show and criticism of actress Brooke Shields for using antidepressants, further strained their relationship. Spielberg, known for his professionalism, reportedly found Cruise’s antics detrimental to their film’s promotional efforts.

The tipping point came when Cruise’s criticism of psychiatric medication intersected with Spielberg’s personal life. Spielberg was acquainted with a doctor who prescribed Ritalin, a medication Cruise and Scientology vehemently oppose.

Following a conversation between Spielberg and Cruise about this doctor, Scientologists allegedly protested outside the doctor’s office. Spielberg and his wife, Kate Capshaw, were reportedly outraged, feeling betrayed by Cruise, who denied involvement.

The incident marked the end of their working relationship, despite the commercial success of their collaborations.

While Spielberg and Cruise seemed to reconcile publicly in recent years, with Spielberg praising Cruise’s work on Top Gun: Maverick at an Oscars luncheon, insiders suggest the relationship has never fully recovered. Spielberg’s decision to distance himself from Scientology reflects his stance against the Church’s controversial practices and its impact on his friendship with Cruise.

Scientology itself remains a polarizing entity. Founded by L. Ron Hubbard in the mid-20th century, the religion emphasizes self-improvement through its teachings, though its secretive nature has led many to label it a cult.

High-profile members like Cruise often defend its principles, but former members, including celebrities, have described a controlling and harmful organization. Spielberg’s choice to reject Cruise’s invitation underscores his disapproval of Scientology’s practices and the personal costs it can impose.

Ultimately, the fallout between Spielberg and Cruise is a cautionary tale about the influence of personal beliefs on professional and personal relationships. Spielberg’s refusal to engage with Scientology was not just a matter of principle but also a decision to safeguard his integrity in an industry often entangled with larger-than-life personalities and ideologies.