Hollywood royalty met a real-life prince when Tom Cruise attended a special dinner at Buckingham Palace on Wednesday night. The superstar actor was a surprise guest at a special dinner hosted by Prince Philip to celebrate the Outward Bound Trust. And the unlikely duo struck up a fast friendship as they chatted together at the event. Tom and the Duke of Edinburgh, both dressed in tuxes for the occasion, were photographed laughing together several times during the dinner. Despite the grandeur of the occasion, the Mission Impossible star, 54, seemed relaxed as he spoke to his host, even putting his hands in his pockets at one stage.
© Photo: PATom Cruise and Prince Philip immediately hit it off when they were introduced at Buckingham Palace
The event was held to mark the 75th anniversary of the Outward Bound Trust, which Tom supports. The charity was set up to help young people from all walks of life develop and reach their potential through outdoor pursuits. It also offers them the chance to take part in the Duke of Edinburgh Award. Prince Philip, 95, has been patron of the Trust since 1999, and was previously the charity's Chairman of Trustees.
© Photo: PAThe pair were in high spirits as they chatted at the Outward Bound Trust dinner
Tom's appearance at the palace comes just one month after the death of his beloved mother. Mary Lee South died peacefully in her sleep at the age of 80 last month. Tom had a close relationship with his mum, and credited her with encouraging his talent for acting. Mary was only rarely seen in public in recent years and the family maintained their privacy following her death.
