Tom Cruise shuts down rumors he's leaving Scientology as he takes private helicopter to headquarters

LOS ANGELES, CALIFORNIA: Tom Cruise's departure from the Church of Scientology has been the subject of conjecture for years.

However, it seems the actor is formally putting an end to the allegations, as he was recently seen returning to the Scientology headquarters despite objections from former members.

Tom was seen flying in a black helicopter, resembling a scenario from one of his 'Mission: Impossible' films, to the Church of Scientology Continental Liaison Office & Commodore's Messenger Organization in East Grinstead, Sussex, according to a Daily Mail article.

Protests at Scientology headquarters

Protesters had gathered outside the religion's headquarters, criticizing its contentious and enigmatic methods. Some demonstrators brandished signs denouncing the purported isolationist practices of Scientology.

Some signs read, “When was the last time you saw your family? They love you, and so do we. Who is really at cause over your life?” Cruise remained at the headquarters when the demonstrators left at about 6.30 pm, as reported by The Things.

Tom's high-profile visit to the headquarters appears to be a direct reaction to a claim that The Mirror published earlier this year, indicating that the actor is reportedly severing ties with the church because he hasn't been spotted at significant Scientology venues in years.

Tom Cruise was going through a 'religious crisis'

The Mirror's claim comes after a 2021 article asserted that Tom was going through a "religious crisis" and was growing disenchanted with the church.

There have been rumors that Tom's breakup with Scientology was caused by his tense relationship with his 18-year-old daughter Suri. His divorce from Suri's mother, Katie Holmes, who has been raising their daughter in a Catholic home since their 2012 split, was reportedly motivated by his religious beliefs.

Their divorce was finalized in a matter of weeks, and Tom gave full custody to Katie in addition to making a sizable payment to her (including $40,000 in monthly child support). According to rumors, he hasn't spoken to their daughter in a while, despite the fact that their divorce agreement states he will continue to cover Suri's tuition when she attends college.

Tom Cruise's divorce from Nicole Kidman

Additionally, it seems that Tom's prior divorce from Nicole Kidman—with whom he was married from 1990 to 2001—was influenced by Scientology. After their breakup, the couple's two adult children moved in with Tom. Like their well-known father, Isabella and Connor Cruise are recognized as practicing Scientology. In 2019, Isabella Eve disclosed in an uncommon life update that she had been elevated to the position of church auditor.