Dakota Fanning's connection to the shoes gifted by Tom Cruise goes far beyond fashion; they carry deep sentimental meaning for her. On the Today show, Fanning revealed that Cruise has sent her a pair of shoes every birthday for over twenty years, a tradition that began when she was just 12. This yearly gesture symbolizes a lasting friendship between the two actors.
The shoe-gifting ritual started in 2005 while filming the science fiction movie War of the Worlds, directed by Steven Spielberg. Fanning, who played Cruise’s daughter, had already shown a passion for shoes at a young age.
"I loved shoes, and I just had started fitting into adult-sized shoes, and so I was really excited about it," Fanning recalled.
Inspired by her enthusiasm, Cruise surprised her with a pair of shoes on her 12th birthday, marking the beginning of an ongoing annual tradition.
Years later, Fanning confirmed on the Today show that Cruise still sends her exquisite shoes each year, showing how their bond has endured through time.
Cruise has been sending her shoes for her birthday every year for the past two decades.
This tradition highlights the unique friendship that started during their work together and continues to be cherished by Fanning.
This touching tradition of shoe gifting between Dakota Fanning and Tom Cruise beautifully illustrates a lasting friendship nurtured over two decades.