Skip to content

Tom Cruise crashes Star Wars set and directs a lightsaber duel

A helicopter landing, a stolen camera, and an impromptu lightsaber duel—Tom Cruise turned a routine filming day into legend. The Star Wars cast won't forget this.

The image shows a helicopter flying over the ocean with a boat in the background. The sky is filled...
The image shows a helicopter flying over the ocean with a boat in the background. The sky is filled with clouds and the sun is shining brightly. The helicopter is dropping water onto the boat, creating a dramatic scene.

Tom Cruise crashes Star Wars set and directs a lightsaber duel

Tom Cruise made a surprise visit to the set of Star Wars: Starfighter, even taking charge of filming an action sequence. The Hollywood star flew in by helicopter and briefly stepped into the director's role. Meanwhile, the film's cast, including Ryan Gosling, continues preparations for its 2027 release.

During his unannounced visit, Cruise landed his helicopter directly on set. He then picked up a camera and began shooting a lightsaber duel scene. Director Shawn Levy had previously mentioned Cruise's habit of impromptu directing in interviews.

Gosling, who plays the lead, was absent that day and later admitted surprise upon seeing photos of Cruise on set. The film's ensemble also includes Matt Smith as the villain, Mia Goth as another antagonist, and Aaron Pierre, Simon Bird, Jamael Westman, Daniel Ings, and Amy Adams in supporting roles. Written by Jonathan Tropper, *Star Wars: Starfighter* is scheduled for release on May 28, 2027. Production continues with key scenes already underway, though Cruise's involvement remains a memorable off-script moment.

The film's 2027 premiere date remains fixed, with Cruise's unexpected contribution adding an unusual twist to production. Gosling and the rest of the cast will now focus on completing their roles ahead of the planned release.

Latest