AUSTIN, TEXAS: In an episode of his renowned podcast, 'The Joe Rogan Experience', the well-known podcaster and UFC commentator, Joe Rogan delved into the controversial interview between Tom Cruise and Matt Lauer. Rogan discussed how Cruise's comments during that interview had the potential to severely damage his career.
As the host of 'The Joe Rogan Experience,' Rogan engages in a wide range of discussions with his guests, which leads to the generation of diverse opinions and perspectives. Through this platform, he offers a platform for candid conversations and the exploration of various topics.
'What the f**k'
Rogan invited comedian Nate Bargatze to make an appearance on his podcast in 2022. During their discussion, they delved into the notorious 2005 interview of Cruise. The duo contemplated that movie stars like Cruise should focus on their craft, continue producing films, and avoid getting entangled in controversial interviews or venturing into other domains.
Rogan stated, "Sometimes, they step out of that and it ruins it… Remember when Tom Cruise went on, was it 'Good Morning America'? Today’s show with Matt Lauer and he was talking about Brooke Shields and psychiatric medication. And he was saying that it’s not a chemical imbalance. Like, these drugs are dangerous…It almost like ruined his f**king career because everybody’s like ‘listen to this loon’. What the f**k is he saying? … Just go back to doing Mission Impossible, brother."
Bargatze, adding his perspective to the discussion, expressed a similar sentiment to Rogan's viewpoint. He emphasized his belief that movie stars should prioritize their primary craft of making films instead of engaging in interviews that could potentially jeopardize their careers.
'All it does is mask the problem'
In 2005, Cruise found himself embroiled in a heated argument during his appearance on the 'Today Show' with Matt Lauer. The discussion took a controversial turn as they delved into the topic of Brooke Shields' use of psychiatric medication.
Cruise stated, "I really care about Brooke Shields. I think she is a wonderful and talented woman and I want to see her do well.”
During the interview, Cruise expressed his strong views regarding the misuse of psychiatric medications such as Adderall and Ritalin. As the conversation progressed, tensions escalated between Cruise and Lauer as they found themselves at odds over the subject. Cruise's passionate stance on the matter led to an intense exchange as they discussed the use of psychiatric drugs in the treatment of patients.
Cruise said, "All it does is mask the problem, Matt. If you understand the history of it, it masks the problem. That’s what it does. That’s all it does. You’re not getting to the reason why. There is no such thing as a chemical imbalance." The interview became a significant turning point for Cruise, attracting a substantial amount of unwanted attention and posing a serious threat to his career at that time.
