Actor Tom Cruise avoided political commentary during a press event in Seoul, South Korea, choosing instead to keep the focus on his upcoming film Mission: Impossible — The Final Reckoning.

The moment came when a reporter raised a question involving former President Donald Trump’s proposed tariffs on international film productions, as reported by The Gateway Pundit.

Cruise was joined by director Christopher McQuarrie and other cast members on Thursday for the global promotion of the next installment in the Mission: Impossible franchise.

MORE NEWS: Phypers Denies Abuse Allegations After Denise Richards Seeks Protection, Viral Housewives Clip Uncovered [WATCH]

During the event, a journalist directed a question regarding the filming locations and whether the production could be affected by tariffs reportedly proposed by Trump on movies shot outside the United States.

“I’d like to ask this question to anybody who’s up for it,” the reporter began.

“I watched this film and I saw that it was filmed in many different locations around the world, including Africa. Of course, we all are aware of the tariffs that President Trump has been imposing on overseas productions and films. So, is this particular movie under that tariff? And how much of the film was shot overseas?”

Before any member of the panel responded, Cruise leaned toward the event moderator and delivered a short response off-mic that was relayed through the translator:

“We’d rather answer questions about the movie. Thank you.”

The actor’s response redirected the focus back to the film itself, effectively avoiding the political angle introduced by the question. The press event continued with discussion centered on the action movie and its global filming experience.

MORE NEWS: Trump Cheers Colbert’s Firing: “Even Less Talent Than Ratings” [WATCH]

Cruise’s brief but firm reaction stood out in contrast to how other Hollywood figures have typically responded when prompted about political topics during public appearances.

His decision to sidestep the issue aligned with the tone of the promotional event, which was aimed at discussing the movie’s content rather than broader political matters.

The Mission: Impossible franchise, led by Cruise since 1996, has filmed in locations around the world. The latest installment is expected to feature scenes from multiple continents and is scheduled for a wide release later this year.

Close

Paramount Pictures, which produced the film, has not issued any statement regarding the impact of tariffs or international filming costs.