In a twist of fate that mirrors the action star’s on-screen escapades, Tom Cruise’s multimillion-dollar penthouse in Clearwater, Florida, has emerged victorious against the wrath of Hurricane Milton. The storm, initially forecasted to be a potential Category 5 monster, ultimately spared the actor’s prized real estate investment and the surrounding area from significant damage.
A Storm’s Unexpected Turn
Hurricane Milton, which had meteorologists and Florida residents on high alert, took an unexpected turn just before making landfall. Florida Governor Ron DeSantis reported in a Thursday briefing, “While the storm was significant, we fortunately avoided the worst-case scenario.” In a rare meteorological event, Tampa even experienced a reverse storm surge, pushing water away from the city rather than inundating it.
Cruise’s Clearwater Castle Stands Tall
The “Mission: Impossible” star’s 20,000-square-foot penthouse, valued at tens of millions, weathered the storm without a scratch. Located just blocks from the Church of Scientology’s international headquarters, Cruise’s two-story luxury abode boasts amenities fit for Hollywood royalty:
- A 39-foot rooftop lap pool
- A private car elevator
- A flight simulator
- An infinity pool
- A hot tub
- An outdoor dining area
All of these extravagant features remained intact post-hurricane, according to exclusive photos obtained by this publication.
The SkyView: From Modest Plans to Mega-Mansion
Cruise’s penthouse, part of the SkyView complex, was originally conceptualized by Scientologist developer Moises Agami as a more modest residential project. However, as plans evolved, the building transformed into the home of Cruise’s deluxe penthouse. The actor purchased the property in 2016 after selling his Beverly Hills estate for $39 million, strategically positioning himself near the Scientology headquarters.
Scientology’s Storm Preparedness
The Church of Scientology, of which Cruise is a prominent member, also reported no damage to its nearby headquarters. In a statement released prior to the hurricane’s arrival, the organization emphasized its thorough preparation efforts: “We have completed all necessary measures to secure our staff, parishioners, and neighbors, including boarding up all windows and vulnerable access points to our properties and those of all shops in the downtown area.”
A Star’s Distant Concern
While his Florida home faced down Hurricane Milton, Cruise himself was spotted in London, appearing visibly concerned just a day before the storm made landfall. The actor, known for performing his own stunts, could only watch from afar as his stateside retreat stood up to nature’s challenge.
In an ironic twist, it seems that Cruise’s Clearwater penthouse has proven itself to be as indestructible as the action hero personas he portrays on screen. As Florida begins its recovery process, the actor’s luxurious safe haven stands as a testament to both architectural resilience and, perhaps, a touch of Hollywood magic.
Source/Esclusive via New York Post