Dakota Fanning recently shared a heartwarming tradition that she has cherished for the past two decades: receiving shoes from her former co-star Tom Cruise as a birthday gift. During her appearance on the “Today” show with Craig Melvin, Fanning confirmed that the gift-giving custom began on her 12th birthday, shortly after she began fitting into adult-sized shoes, which made her particularly excited.
Fanning, who starred as Cruise’s daughter in the 2005 sci-fi film “War of the Worlds,” elaborated on the relationship between the two actors, saying, “He sends me beautiful shoes, it’s a tradition that started… I was really excited about it.” She emphasized that the gifts have always showcased Cruise’s exquisite taste, stating, “He’s got good taste,” when asked about the styles, which Melvin humorously suggested might include luxury brands like Louis Vuitton or Prada.
Melvin then inquired whether she wore the gifted shoes or if they were simply for display. Fanning responded, “I do [wear the shoes]. But I save them all, I’ll keep them forever. It’s such a great memory; it’s a way that he checks in with me. It’s really, really generous.”
Fanning previously detailed this endearing custom on “The Kelly Clarkson Show,” recalling how Cruise had gifted her a Motorola Razr phone for her 11th birthday before shifting to the annual shoe tradition. She fondly remembered how she was able to wear small adult-sized shoes during the promotional tour for “War of the Worlds.”
In her recent public appearances, Fanning’s love for shoes remains evident. For instance, she showcased a pair of stylish ballet flats in a Madewell fall campaign, where she contributed to the design of some pieces for her Dakota for Madewell collection. During her “Today” show interview, she opted for a chic pair of black slingbacks by Aquazzura, reflecting her ongoing appreciation for fashionable footwear.
This touching story not only highlights the bond between Fanning and Cruise but also showcases the thoughtful gestures that can thrive in the Hollywood spotlight. It serves as a reminder of the enduring connections that often blossom in the entertainment industry.