During the Paris 2024 Olympics closing ceremony, Tom Cruise found himself at the center of a contentious debate about consent. As the 62-year-old actor made a dramatic entrance, abseiling from the roof of the Stade de France and greeting fans, a woman, believed to be an Olympian, grabbed Cruise and kissed him. The moment was captured on camera and quickly went viral, sparking widespread discussion on social media. Many viewers expressed discomfort with the incident, arguing that it crossed a line, particularly if the genders had been reversed, raising concerns about double standards in situations involving celebrities.
The incident prompted a range of reactions on social media. Some users were quick to label the kiss as inappropriate and even akin to “sexual assault,” emphasizing that no one should be touched or kissed without their consent, regardless of their celebrity status. One commenter noted, “You don’t grab and kiss a person, especially a person you don’t even know in any way, and twice, like that. It’s very rude to force yourself onto them that way.” The incident has reignited discussions about the importance of respecting personal boundaries, even in public and celebratory settings.
still shocked at #Olympics closing ceremony where a Lithuanian athlete sexually assaulted Tom Cruise in front of a global audience then a GB athlete was so aggressive he almost fell then Tom had to swat away another GB athlete grabbing at him
— tweety (@tweetyenergy) August 13, 2024
US athlete ? tv version ? slo mo pic.twitter.com/wqACa4J36Z
However, not everyone viewed the incident in the same light. Some people defended the woman’s actions, suggesting that such greetings are more common in European cultures and might not carry the same connotations of impropriety as they would elsewhere. One social media user downplayed the controversy, stating, “That’s how people greet each other in most of Europe,” highlighting the cultural differences that can influence perceptions of such interactions. Despite this, the debate underscored the ongoing dialogue around consent and how it should be universally respected, regardless of cultural norms.
Tom Cruise, known for his grace and professionalism, did not publicly comment on the incident, but the moment has added another layer to the discussions surrounding celebrity encounters and personal space. The incident also came as part of a broader celebration that included performances by Billie Eilish, H.E.R., and the Red Hot Chili Peppers, making Cruise’s appearance and the ensuing debate one of the standout moments of the closing ceremony. As conversations about consent continue to evolve, this incident serves as a reminder of the complexities involved in public interactions, especially with high-profile figures.
