Tom Cruise's 'Top Gun: Maverick' Co-Star on the Lessons Learned from the Hollywood Icon

Jay Ellis, who shared the screen with Tom Cruise in the blockbuster 'Top Gun: Maverick', reveals the invaluable lesson he learned from the renowned actor during production: the importance of creating something extraordinary.

Jay Ellis, the breakout star of 'Top Gun: Maverick', recently spoke to Fox News Digital about the profound impact that Tom Cruise had on the cast and crew during the filming of the blockbuster movie. Ellis shared that Cruise instilled in them a deep sense of purpose and the unwavering belief that they were crafting something truly special.

Cruise's unwavering dedication to excellence served as an inspiration to the entire team, according to Ellis. "He reminded us daily that we were making something special. It wasn't just a movie; it was an experience that we were creating for the audience," Ellis said.

Tom Cruise's 'Top Gun: Maverick' Co-Star on the Lessons Learned from the Hollywood Icon

The actor further elaborated on the lessons he learned from Cruise, emphasizing the importance of setting high standards and never settling for mediocrity. "Tom taught us that if you're going to do something, you do it right," Ellis explained.

Cruise's influence extended beyond the technical aspects of filmmaking, inspiring the cast to embrace the emotional depth of their characters. Ellis recalled how Cruise encouraged them to delve into the personal struggles and motivations of their roles, creating a rich and relatable cinematic experience.

Tom Cruise's 'Top Gun: Maverick' Co-Star on the Lessons Learned from the Hollywood Icon

"We didn't just want to make a great action film; we wanted to make a story that resonated with people on a human level," Ellis said. "Tom pushed us to find those moments of truth in our characters."

The actor also acknowledged the intense physical challenges involved in 'Top Gun: Maverick', with the cast undergoing rigorous training to prepare for the high-octane flight sequences. Cruise, a certified pilot himself, took an active role in the training, showcasing his exceptional skills and passion for aviation.

Tom Cruise's 'Top Gun: Maverick' Co-Star on the Lessons Learned from the Hollywood Icon

"Tom's love for flying is contagious," Ellis said. "He shared his knowledge and enthusiasm with us, making us all better pilots and better actors."

Beyond his professionalism, Ellis praised Cruise's genuine kindness and mentorship towards the cast. "Tom is not only an incredible actor and filmmaker, but he's also a wonderful human being," Ellis said. "He took the time to get to know each of us and supported us in our personal and professional growth."

Tom Cruise's 'Top Gun: Maverick' Co-Star on the Lessons Learned from the Hollywood Icon

Ellis's experience working with Tom Cruise on 'Top Gun: Maverick' left an enduring impact on him, teaching him invaluable lessons about filmmaking, perseverance, and the importance of striving for excellence.

"I'm so grateful for the opportunity to have worked with Tom," Ellis said. "He's a true legend, and I learned so much from him."

Tom Cruise's 'Top Gun: Maverick' Co-Star on the Lessons Learned from the Hollywood Icon

The blockbuster success of 'Top Gun: Maverick' is a testament to the unwavering dedication and exceptional leadership of Tom Cruise. His ability to motivate and inspire those around him has resulted in a cinematic experience that has captivated audiences worldwide.

As the cast and crew of 'Top Gun: Maverick' embark on a possible sequel, they will undoubtedly carry with them the lessons they learned from Tom Cruise, ensuring that they continue to create extraordinary entertainment for generations to come.

Tom Cruise's 'Top Gun: Maverick' Co-Star on the Lessons Learned from the Hollywood Icon