While filming a romantic scene for the 1988 film “Cocktail,” actress Gina Gershon had an unexpected mishap with her co-star Tom Cruise. In a recent interview, Gershon recounted how she accidentally kneed Cruise in the nose during one take.
Gershon played the role of Coral in the movie. In one scene, her character engages in a love scene with Cruise’s character. Prior to filming, Gershon had warned Cruise that she is ticklish. However, during one take Cruise grabbed her stomach, likely trying to elicit a genuine reaction. This caused Gershon’s knee-jerk reaction, striking Cruise in the face.
Though concerned she may have broken Cruise’s nose, Gershon said the actor quickly reassured her. “He was like, ‘No, no, you told me,'” recalled Gershon. Cruise took responsibility for the incident rather than blaming his co-star. Gershon added that Cruise was very considerate and protective of her throughout shooting.
Despite the awkward moment, Gershon said she and Cruise maintained good on-screen chemistry. She noted they “did kiss as much as we could” despite Cruise’s wife Mimi Rogers frequently being present on set. The experience provided Gershon valuable lessons about filming intimate scenes as a newcomer to movies.
Now promoting her latest movie “Borderlands,” Gershon’s interview offered insight into the unpredictable nature of movies and professionalism of fellow actors like Cruise. Cruise is next planned to perform a live stunt at the closing of the 2024 Paris Olympics as the Olympic flag is passed to the 2028 LA Games.
