Sir Chris Bryant, the UK's Culture Minister, has launched a stinging rebuke against Hollywood A-lister Tom Cruise, accusing the star of showing a profound lack of respect for the British television industry.
The minister's outburst was sparked by claims that the Mission: Impossible icon imposes a peculiar and restrictive clause in his contracts. It is alleged that television crews are instructed to film Cruise exclusively from his left-hand side, a demand Bryant suggests is symptomatic of a wider dismissive attitude.
Bryant didn't mince his words, stating such behaviour from high-profile actors sends a message that the UK's broadcasting sector is not taken seriously. He framed the issue as part of a broader pattern where the domestic industry is treated as a secondary concern.
The minister's comments highlight a growing tension between the glamour of international film production and the professional pride of the UK's skilled technical workforce. Bryant's intervention is seen as a strong defence of British crew members, who are renowned globally for their expertise and professionalism.
This incident raises questions about the power dynamics on set and the expectations placed on production teams by major Hollywood talent. It underscores the government's focus on protecting and promoting the interests of the UK's creative sectors on the world stage.
