As the 2024 Paris Olympics came to a close on August 11th, viewers were left with more than just memories of athletic triumphs and theatrical spectacles. The much-anticipated Closing Ceremony, which is traditionally a celebration of the Olympic spirit and the handover to the next host city, had one major feature that failed to impress: Tom Cruise’s grand stunt.

The closing event, held at the Stade de France, was meant to transition the Olympic torch from Paris to Los Angeles, the host city for the 2028 Games. Hollywood superstar Tom Cruise, who has been a fixture at these Games with his high-octane action films, was expected to bring his own brand of excitement to the ceremony. However, the result left many viewers scratching their heads.

In a segment that was supposed to dazzle, Cruise, 62, performed what was advertised as a Mission: Impossible-inspired stunt. He dramatically abseiled from the roof of the stadium, landed among the cheering crowd, and then rode out on a motorbike while holding the Olympic flag. The performance was supposed to be the highlight of the event, but many found it underwhelming.

“I was expecting a showstopper, but that Tom Cruise stunt was a letdown,” one viewer commented. “It felt like a half-hearted attempt at excitement. The entire ceremony, both opening and closing, lacked passion and imagination.”

Another observer shared similar sentiments, stating, “The entire closing ceremony was bland. Tom Cruise’s stunt was just a basic performance that didn’t live up to the hype. I expected better from a top-tier star like him.”

Some viewers did manage to find a silver lining, noting the stunt’s alignment with Cruise’s famous film persona. “It was like a Mission: Impossible supercut,” one fan mused, appreciating the nod to his action-packed film career. “He hit all the high notes—jumping off buildings, riding motorcycles, and even skydiving.”

Despite the mixed reviews, Cruise’s appearance was not without purpose. The stunt tied in with the promotion for his upcoming film, *Mission: Impossible – Dead Reckoning Part Two*, set for release in May 2025. Paramount Pictures, eager to capitalize on the synergy between Cruise’s film and his Olympic stunt, issued a statement of thanks. They praised Cruise’s dedication to both his craft and the franchise, highlighting his role in enhancing the cinematic experience for audiences worldwide.

Cruise responded to the praise with enthusiasm, expressing his pride in the collaboration and looking forward to the next chapter in the *Mission: Impossible* series.

In other closing ceremony highlights, Billie Eilish and H.E.R delivered memorable performances, while the Red Hot Chili Peppers rocked the stage with their hit “Can’t Stop.” Yet, even these standout moments couldn’t fully overshadow the mixed reception of Cruise’s stunt.

International Olympic Committee President Thomas Bach, reflecting on the Games, described them as “Seine-sational,” a playful nod to the River Seine and a positive spin on the overall event. Bach praised the 2024 Paris Olympics for their emphasis on inclusivity, sustainability, and gender parity.

As the world shifts its gaze towards Los Angeles for the 2028 Games, it remains to be seen how future ceremonies will balance grand spectacle with meaningful engagement. For now, Tom Cruise’s less-than-stellar stunt serves as a reminder that even the biggest names can stumble when expectations soar.