Tom Cruise made a swift exit from London on Monday, departing in his private helicopter just as his estranged daughter, Suri, begins a new chapter at Carnegie Mellon University.
The 18-year-old Suri, who has been making headlines with her fashion choices, is starting college and has opted to drop her famous father’s last name. It’s been over a decade since the two were last seen together in public.
Cruise, who has been largely absent from significant moments in Suri’s life—like her prom and recent relationships—was spotted at Battersea Heliport in a casual outfit of a white golf shirt, black jeans, and sneakers. The 62-year-old actor, fresh from a Mediterranean vacation and his Paris Olympics appearance, appeared focused on his upcoming “Mission Impossible” project as he flew out of the city.
In contrast, Cruise’s ex-wife Katie Holmes was seen returning to the U.S. after dropping Suri off at college. The former couple, who divorced in 2012, had a high-profile split, with Holmes leaving Cruise and the Church of Scientology, which Cruise remains involved with. As part of their divorce settlement, Cruise agreed to pay Holmes $400,000 annually until Suri turned 18 and to cover her college expenses.
Suri, now known as Suri Noelle after adopting her mother’s middle name, is following a trend among celebrity children distancing themselves from their famous parents. Despite Cruise’s financial support, Suri is reported to be closer to her mother.
Holmes, speaking to Town & Country, expressed pride and nostalgia over Suri’s new journey. “I’ll miss having her close, but I’m thrilled for her,” Holmes said. “I remember being her age and starting new beginnings. It’s an exciting time of self-discovery, and it makes me happy to see her embrace it.”
Stay tuned for updates on Suri’s college journey and Tom Cruise’s next moves.
