How Much Did Tom Cruise Get Paid for Mission: Impossible - The Final Reckoning?

Film Feature by Chris Olson

Whether it's the final instalment of the Mission: Impossible franchise or not, The Final Reckoning has received a middling response at best from critics. It also got dunked on financially by Lilo & Stitch at the box office, garnering only $64m on its opening weekend in the US & Canada, compared to $146m by Dean Fleischer Camp's 2025 live-action L&S.

That being said, there have been questions about how much money Tom Cruise got paid for Mission: Impossible - The Final Reckoning, as well as the money he's made in total from all of the M:I movies. One outlet suggested he's made $600m across all of the movies from the franchise, with $120m from the final film alone.

When it comes to star power, no one can deny that Tom Cruise should have been paid that much for the Mission: Impossible movies. His face is synonymous with cinema and gets more bums on seats than pretty much any other Hollywood actor. From the ludicrous stunts to the exponentially convoluted storylines, the M:I movies are not for everyone, as the critical backlash to The Final Reckoning is showing, but one cannot deny their solid place amongst cinematic royalty. Few movie franchises have been able to accomplish such an impossible feat and the paycheck Tom Cruise has received marries up with his contribution fittingly.

It's possible the Mission: Impossible film series has collectively earned over $4.35 billion worldwide. Tom Cruise's indelible mark on the Mission: Impossible franchise extends far beyond his iconic portrayal of Ethan Hunt. As both the lead actor and a dedicated producer, his contributions are arguably the primary driving force behind the series' enduring critical and commercial success, which has collectively grossed over $4.35 billion worldwide.

Firstly, Cruise's unwavering commitment to the character of Ethan Hunt provides a consistent, compelling anchor for the films. He has meticulously shaped Hunt into a relatable, albeit extraordinary, hero whose moral compass and relentless determination resonate deeply with audiences across two decades. This continuity in character and performance builds trust and anticipation for each new instalment.

Secondly, Cruise's role as a producer grants him significant creative control, allowing him to champion visionary directors and ensure a high standard of quality. He's known for his meticulous involvement in every aspect of production, from script development to post-production, fostering a collaborative environment that pushes boundaries and maintains artistic integrity. This hands-on approach ensures that each film feels fresh and ambitious, avoiding the common pitfalls of long-running franchises.

Perhaps most famously, Cruise's dedication to performing increasingly elaborate and dangerous practical stunts is a monumental draw. From scaling the Burj Khalifa to HALO jumps and intricate motorcycle chases, these real-world feats create a visceral sense of excitement and authenticity that CGI often struggles to replicate. This commitment not only thrills audiences but also generates immense buzz, making the "how did they do that?" factor a key marketing asset.

Finally, Cruise is a fervent advocate for the theatrical experience. His passion for cinema and his insistence on delivering spectacle-driven entertainment have helped keep audiences returning to the big screen, even in an evolving media landscape. His singular vision and relentless pursuit of excellence have transformed Mission: Impossible from a film series into a benchmark for action cinema, securing its place as one of the most successful and respected franchises in history.

Will The Final Reckoning be the last M:I movie? That remains to be seen and speaking with film critic Brian Penn recently on the UK Film Club Podcast, he thinks they left the door open for more. With the amount of money Tom Cruise gets paid, it's perhaps a mission he can't ever walk away from.