Doesn't it feel like it was only yesterday that up-and-coming actor Tom Cruise was dancing in his socks and underwear in "Risky Business"? Now the A-list movie star is turning 50, with decades of critically acclaimed movies under his belt.
We may all remember that infamous boxer scene, but it was actually 1981’s “Taps” -- the Syracuse, New York native's second film -- that gave Cruise his big break, leading him on a road to superstardom. Cruise has dominated the box office since with films like "Top Gun" and "Jerry Maguire." The actor most recently took on the role of wild rocker, Stacee Jaxx, in the movie adaptation of the 1980s Broadway rock musical "Rock of Ages." Fans got a chance to see the star flex his singing muscles, while showing off his rock-hard physique, in the remake; the actor worked with vocal coach Ron Anderson, who has worked previously with Axl Rose, for the role.
The Wall Street Journal reported Cruise had this to say about singing in the movie:
"Adam Shankman, the director, asked me if I could carry a tune," Cruise said. "I said, 'We’ll see, won’t we? This is either going to work or it’s going to be dreadful.'"
But whether or not he can hold a note is the least of the star’s worries. Last month Katie Holmes, Cruise’s third wife, announced she wanted a divorce, citing “irreconcilable differences” after five years of marriage. The two have a 6-year-old daughter, Suri. Cruise was married previously to actresses Mimi Rogers and Nicole Kidman. Kidman and Cruise have two adopted children together.
Yet in the wake of his divorce, Cruise may have some good news in front of him: there are rumors of a "Top Gun 2" circulating. Cruise fans may get to see the actor revive some of his biggest roles.
Check out our slideshow for some of Cruise’s career highlights. If your need for speed has you flying through the star's career bests, you can also take a look at 50 of Cruise's most memorable movie quotes.
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