When it comes to unexpected Hollywood romances, few are as head-turning or as globally captivating as the love story between Penélope Cruz and Tom Cruise. It began in 2000 on the set of Vanilla Sky, a dreamy, surreal remake of the Spanish film Abre los ojos (Open Your Eyes), in which Cruz reprised the same role she played in the original.
What started as on-screen chemistry quietly bloomed into a real-life relationship that would dominate headlines for years and leave a legacy that still fascinates fans on both sides of the Atlantic.
Two Worlds Collide on a Movie Set
Tom Cruise was already cruising at the top of the A-list when he met Penélope Cruz. By then, he had cemented himself as an action hero, romantic lead, and serious actor with a string of hits like "Top Gun." On the other hand, Cruz was one of Europe's brightest talents, fresh off films like "All About My Mother" and "Blow," and just starting to break into Hollywood.
Their worlds couldn't have been more different. Yet, somehow, that contrast made the connection all the more electric.
Cruise later confirmed that the relationship didn't begin until after filming wrapped: "We weren't together until the movie was finished. I'm working on my Spanish. Maybe someday I'll be ready."
Low-Key, But Still Headline-Making
From 2001 to 2004, Cruise and Cruz were Hollywood's most unexpected power couple. They never flaunted their relationship in front of the cameras, but they didn't exactly hide it either. Red carpet appearances, dinner dates, and mutual admiration in interviews intrigued fans.
Cruise was in the midst of his post-divorce phase after splitting from Nicole Kidman, and Cruz had just arrived in Hollywood without much of a safety net.
And while many tabloids speculated endlessly about the nature of their relationship, both actors kept it classy and largely out of the spotlight.
The Spanish Connection
Cruz brought not only her charisma and talent to the relationship but also her culture. Tom Cruise's affection for Spain grew exponentially while dating her. He spent time in Madrid, dined in chic restaurants, and even explored lesser-known regions.
Decades after their split, Mónica Cruz, Penélope's younger sister, shared how surreal the whole experience was. On Spain's talk show "Zapeando," she described Cruise as "a really normal, really fun guy" and spoke highly of how he treated their family.
Coming from one of Spain's most recognizable acting dynasties, that endorsement carried weight.
Tom's appreciation for Spain didn't end with the breakup. Over the years, he's returned frequently, even sparking rumors of collaborations with directors like Alejandro González Iñárritu during a laid-back beachside hangout in Mallorca.
Their relationship may have ended two decades ago, but the ripple effects still show. Penélope Cruz won an Oscar, married fellow Spanish actor Javier Bardem, and became a staple of Hollywood and European cinema. Meanwhile, Tom Cruise defies time and gravity in every new "Mission: Impossible" installment. They were never tabloid trainwrecks, and there were no scandals or dramatic fallouts. They were just two megastars who crossed paths, connected deeply, and quietly moved on.
While Cruz and Cruise are a moment of the past, in 2025, the actor has been linked to another Hispanic star. In a worldwide exclusive, ¡HOLA! reveals the first photos of Ana de Armas and Tom Cruise enjoying a Mediterranean escape, igniting speculation about their relationship.
As summer arrived with sunshine and time off, the pair were spotted together, offering a clearer glimpse into their relationship. Tom Cruise has frequently praised Ana de Armas, describing her as a highly talented actress skilled in both drama and comedy. He admires her strong work ethic and her ability to learn quickly. Ana has also confirmed that they are collaborating on several projects together.