When Tom Cruise, born Thomas Cruise Mapother IV, made his debut with fellow rising stars Matt Dillon, Patrick Swayze, Rob Lowe, Emilio Estevez, and Ralph Macchio in Francis Ford Coppola’s 1983 film “The Outsiders,” few could have predicted the incredible success awaiting the then 21-year-old.

Cruise’s minor role as Steve Randle was unremarkable, but his subsequent lead role in “Risky Business” paved the way for a skyrocketing career.

Cruise solidified his stardom with his iconic portrayal of Maverick in 1986’s “Top Gun.”

With three Golden Globes, three Academy Award nominations, and a string of blockbuster films under his belt, Cruise has become one of the highest-paid actors globally.

However, there’s more to the charismatic actor than his infectious smile and easygoing charm.

Cruise’s affiliation with Scientology and his eccentric public behavior have only contributed to his enigmatic allure. So, it’s time to delve into the lesser-known aspects of Tom Cruise’s life.

Cruise attended numerous schools while growing up and faced bullying.

He moved frequently due to his family’s financial situation and constant relocation, which made him a target for bullies.

Cruise’s resilience, determination, and competitive spirit were evident in his athletic pursuits, including floor hockey and track.

Cruise’s love for acting began in fourth grade, and he eventually graduated from Glen Ridge High School in New Jersey.

He was diagnosed with dyslexia at age 7, which led to him describing himself as a “functional illiterate” when he left school in 1980.

Cruise struggled with reading and memorizing scripts, relying on ad-libbing during auditions.

His introduction to Scientology in 1986 and L. Ron Hubbard’s Study Technology learning method helped him overcome his dyslexia.

Cruise had a tumultuous relationship with his father, Thomas Cruise Mapother III, whom he described as an abusive bully.

His parents divorced when he was 12, and Cruise did not see his father again until he was dying of cancer.

Reflecting on his father’s life, Cruise noted the loneliness and sadness that characterized his final days.