Tom Cruise's 'Massive Breakfast' Fuels Death-Defying 'Mission Impossible' Airplane Stunts

Tom Cruise, the seemingly ageless 62-year-old Hollywood icon, is once again pushing the boundaries of cinematic action with his death-defying stunts in the upcoming installment of the Mission: Impossible franchise, titled Mission: Impossible – The Final Reckoning. Known for his unwavering commitment to performing his own stunts, Cruise has now revealed the surprising fuel behind his high-octane performances – a "massive breakfast."

In a recent interview, Cruise shared the details of his pre-stunt meal, particularly before tackling a breathtaking sequence involving hanging from and crawling along the wings of a vintage 1940s biplane soaring over South Africa's Drakensberg mountains. This isn't just any breakfast; it's a power-packed combination designed to provide the immense energy required for such a physically demanding feat.

"I actually eat a massive breakfast," Cruise revealed. "The amount of energy it takes – I train so hard for that wing-walking. I'll eat, like, sausage and almost a dozen eggs and bacon and toast and coffee and fluids. Oh, I'm eating! Picture: It's cold up there. We're at high altitude. My body is burning a lot."

This hearty meal underscores the sheer physical exertion involved in Cruise's stunts. Hanging onto the exterior of an aircraft traveling at speeds exceeding 120 miles per hour at high altitude in cold temperatures demands significant energy reserves. Cruise's body is working intensely against the elements and the forces of nature, requiring substantial fuel to maintain his strength and focus.

Cruise's fascination with wing-walking dates back to his childhood, where he was captivated by old footage of performers on biplanes. However, he notes the significant difference between those early stunts and the one he performs in The Final Reckoning. "Those aircraft were only traveling at, I don't know, 40, 50 miles an hour," he explained. "This aircraft is up to over 120 miles an hour. Going out there, I was realizing that it takes your breath away."

The dedication to realism in the Mission: Impossible films is a hallmark of the franchise, and The Final Reckoning is no exception. Stunt coordinator Wade Eastwood emphasized that there was "not one single shot that was not on a plane flying for real," dispelling any notions of green screen trickery. This commitment to authenticity elevates the danger and the audience's sense of awe at Cruise's daring.

Beyond the aerial stunts, The Final Reckoning also features intense underwater sequences, further showcasing Cruise's willingness to push his physical limits. For these scenes, Cruise opted for a clear mask instead of standard scuba gear to maintain a connection with the character. His experience flying jets has also equipped him with the ability to manage hypoxia and carbon dioxide buildup, crucial skills for extended periods underwater with limited oxygen. "You're not going to feel as connected with the character if I went with a regular mask and a thing in my mouth to breathe," Cruise explained. "Luckily, when you're flying jets you train for hypoxia and for carbon dioxide buildup. You start to be able to perceive your body and how it's reacting so that I knew when to stop."

Cruise's intensive training regimen complements his "massive breakfast" strategy. While specific details of his current training for The Final Reckoning haven't been extensively revealed, his past workouts have demonstrated a holistic approach to fitness. He typically engages in a five-day-a-week routine that combines weight training for strength, cardiovascular exercises for endurance, and a variety of outdoor activities such as hiking, rock climbing, and even fencing to maintain agility and balance. This diverse approach ensures he is physically prepared for the unpredictable nature of his stunts.

Nutritionally, Cruise has generally followed a diet that prioritizes lean protein, fruits, and vegetables. Reports suggest he often consumes multiple smaller meals throughout the day to maintain energy levels and avoids processed foods, sugary snacks, and excessive carbohydrates. While his "massive breakfast" for high-energy stunts might deviate from his typical daily routine, it aligns with the principle of fueling his body appropriately for the extreme demands placed upon it.

The Mission: Impossible franchise has become synonymous with Cruise's unwavering dedication to performing breathtaking stunts. From scaling the Burj Khalifa to hanging off a military plane during takeoff, his commitment to delivering authentic action has captivated audiences for decades. The Final Reckoning promises to continue this tradition, with the biplane stunt already generating significant buzz.

Director Christopher McQuarrie, a frequent collaborator with Cruise, has teased that the film contains stunts that will "melt your brain," hinting at even more audacious sequences beyond the already revealed airplane feat. This level of commitment from both the star and the director underscores their passion for pushing the boundaries of action cinema.

As audiences eagerly anticipate the release of Mission: Impossible – The Final Reckoning, Tom Cruise's "massive breakfast" anecdote offers a glimpse into the extraordinary preparation and physical demands required to bring these incredible stunts to life. It's a testament to his dedication, his lifelong passion for daring feats, and perhaps, the power of a truly substantial morning meal.