There have been plenty of opportunities for Tom Cruise to defend his religious beliefs over the years, what with various documentary releases and tell-all press releases by ex-Scientology members, but he’s managed to stay quiet until now.
His defensive comments came after he was questioned about Theroux’s documentary during the London premiere of new film Jack Reacher: Never Go Back. Cruise stated: “It’s something that has helped me incredibly in my life, I’ve been a Scientologist for over 30 years. It’s something that is, you know… without it, I wouldn’t be where I am. So, it’s a beautiful religion. I’m incredibly proud.”
Cruise joined the Church of Scientology 30 years ago when he was introduced to the controversial group by ex-wife Mimi Rogers. He claims the religions has helped him in a number of ways, including “curing” him of his dyslexia.
Tom Cruise Breaks Scientology Silence After Shocking Tell-All Documentary
The church has been labelled and criticized over the years as being a cult and an excuse for high powered people to avoid paying their taxes. Many ex-members have come forward to expose the abusive nature of Scientology, which the leader of the church, David Miscavige, strongly denies.