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Tom Cruise's Mother, Mary Lee South, Dies

Mary Lee South, 80, died peacefully in her sleep last week, say sources

Mary Lee South, the mother of Tom Cruise , has died, PEOPLE has learned exclusively.

South, 80, died peacefully in her sleep last week. South, who coped with health issues in recent years, was given a memorial service at her local Church of Scientology this weekend.

The 54-year-old star and his sisters Lee Ann DeVette, 57, Cass Mapother, 55, and Marian Henry, 52, all attended the memorial along with other family and friends.

Born Mary Lee Pfeiffer, the Louisville, Kentucky, native was a special-education teacher when she wed Cruise’s father, Thomas Cruise Mapother III, an electrical engineer. It was from her that Cruise developed a passion for acting.

“I was always interested in theater, but I never did anything with it,” she told Rolling Stone in 1986. “When I was growing up, if you went to Hollywood, that was really risqué.”

The family lived in Syracuse, New York, where Cruise was born, and Ottawa, Canada. When Cruise was young, his mother encouraged him to participate in a local theater group. “I guess I was his greatest audience,” she said. “He had it in him then.” But Cruise’s love of sports took precedence as he grew up.

Her marriage to Mapother was tumultuous. Cruise told PEOPLE in 2006 that his father was “a bully.” Mary Lee ended the marriage in 1974.

RELATED: Why You Need to Watch Jack Reacher: Never Go Back on Blu-Ray

She returned to the United States, and worked a series of jobs to keep her family out of poverty. Cruise helped with money from a paper route. He even massaged his mother’s sore feet after she came home from long days at work.

That close relationship continued when the family relocated to Glen Ridge, New Jersey, and Mary Lee wed Jack South in 1978, when Cruise was 16. “He loved my mother so much that he took us all in, all four young people,” Cruise later recalled.

After a knee injury sidelined her son’s varsity wrestling career, Mary Lee encouraged him to try out for a high school production of Guys and Dolls . After the play, Cruise surprised his mother by asking if he could have 10 years to give show business a try. She approved, and with her support, he waited tables in New York City before breaking into the movies.

The close mother-son relationship continued as he became a box-office star.

As for South, she never doubted her son would be a success. When Cruise asked her and her second husband if he could be an actor, “We both wholeheartedly agreed,” she told Rolling Stone . “Because we both felt it was a God-given talent … So to make a long story short, we gave him our blessing — and the rest is history.”

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Tom Cruise's mom Mary Lee South dies at age 80

Tom Cruise's mother Mary Lee South has died, a rep for the actor confirmed to TODAY.

Our condolences go out to Cruise, 54, and his three sisters, who reportedly attended a memorial service for their mom over the weekend.

South, 80, died peacefully last week in her sleep following health issues, People.com reported . Her memorial service was held at her local Church of Scientology, according to the website.

RELATED: Watch Tom Cruise re-create his entire career in under 10 minutes with James Corden

South is often credited as the person who got her son into the entertainment business in the first place, encouraging him to act in local theater groups and try out for high school plays.

"I guess I was his greatest audience," she told Rolling Stone in a 1986 interview . "He had it in him then."

RELATED: Tom Cruise faces off against Jimmy Fallon in amazing lip-sync battle

And throughout Cruise's career, his mom continued to be his biggest fan.

She and her husband thought acting was Cruise's "God-given talent," she told the magazine.

The mother and son maintained a close relationship — South was often spotted on Cruise's arm at red carpet events throughout the 1990s, including the Golden Globe Awards.

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Tom Cruise's mother dies, age 80

Tom Cruise's mother, Mary Lee South, who encouraged her only son to pursue his Hollywood dreams, has died. She was 80.

People reported she died last week in her sleep at her home following unspecified health issues. A representative for Cruise, Amanda Lundberg, confirmed her death to USA TODAY and said the People  account of her passing was accurate.

A memorial service at her local Church of Scientology took place this weekend. Cruise, 54, was there along with his three sisters, Lee Ann DeVette, 57, Cass Mapother, 55, and Marian Henry, 52, along with other family and friends.

Cruise and his mother were close; she believed he got his passion for acting from her, a theater lover who never pursued her dreams. She urged him to try out for high school theater productions.

Mary Lee Pfeiffer was a Louisville, Ky, native who was a teacher when she married Cruise's father, Thomas Cruise Mapother III. The marriage was unhappy and broke up and she remarried, to Cruise's stepfather, Jack South.

Mapother died in 1984 of complications related to cancer.

When Cruise later approached his mother and stepfather seeking approval and time to pursue an acting career, “We both wholeheartedly agreed,” she told Rolling Stone in 1986.

“Because we both felt it was a God-given talent…So to make a long story short, we gave him our blessing — and the rest is history.”

Tom Cruise's mother has passed away at age 80

The actor attended her memorial service over the weekend.

— -- Tom Cruise 's mother, Mary Lee South, has died, a representative for Cruise confirmed to ABC News.

According to People , South died peacefully in her sleep last week. The magazine reports she has dealt with health issues in recent years, and a memorial service was held in her honor at her local Church of Scientology this past weekend. Cruise attended the memorial along with his sisters, Lee Ann DeVette, Cass Mapother and Marian Henry, People said.

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Katie holmes shares adorable photos of suri cruise.

Cruise was close with his mother throughout his life, People reported, and she encouraged him to participate in a local theater group when he was a child. She continued to support his acting career into adulthood, and told Rolling Stone magazine in 1986 that she thought it was a "God-given talent."

"To make a long story short, we gave him our blessing," she said. "And the rest is history."

South was 80 years old.

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Tom Cruise’s Mother, Mary Lee South, Dies

Mary Lee South, the mother of Tom Cruise , has died, PEOPLE has learned exclusively.

South, 80, died peacefully in her sleep last week. South, who coped with health issues in recent years, was given a memorial service at her local Church of Scientology this weekend.

The 54-year-old star and his sisters Lee Ann DeVette, 57, Cass Mapother, 55, and Marian Henry, 52, all attended the memorial along with other family and friends.

Born Mary Lee Pfeiffer, the Louisville, Kentucky, native was a special-education teacher when she wed Cruise’s father, Thomas Cruise Mapother III, an electrical engineer. It was from her that Cruise developed a passion for acting.

“I was always interested in theater, but I never did anything with it,” she told Rolling Stone in 1986. “When I was growing up, if you went to Hollywood, that was really risqué.”

The family lived in Syracuse, New York, where Cruise was born, and Ottawa, Canada. When Cruise was young, his mother encouraged him to participate in a local theater group. “I guess I was his greatest audience,” she said. “He had it in him then.” But Cruise’s love of sports took precedence as he grew up.

Her marriage to Mapother was tumultuous. Cruise told PEOPLE in 2006 that his father was “a bully.” Mary Lee ended the marriage in 1974.

She returned to the United States, and worked a series of jobs to keep her family out of poverty. Cruise helped with money from a paper route. He even massaged his mother’s sore feet after she came home from long days at work.

That close relationship continued when the family relocated to Glen Ridge, New Jersey, and Mary Lee wed Jack South in 1978, when Cruise was 16. “He loved my mother so much that he took us all in, all four young people,” Cruise later recalled.

After a knee injury sidelined her son’s varsity wrestling career, Mary Lee encouraged him to try out for a high school production of Guys and Dolls . After the play, Cruise surprised his mother by asking if he could have 10 years to give show business a try. She approved, and with her support, he waited tables in New York City before breaking into the movies.

The close mother-son relationship continued as he became a box-office star.

As for South, she never doubted her son would be a success. When Cruise asked her and her second husband if he could be an actor, “We both wholeheartedly agreed,” she told Rolling Stone . “Because we both felt it was a God-given talent … So to make a long story short, we gave him our blessing — and the rest is history.”

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Tom Cruise’s Mom, Mary Lee South, Dies at 80

Tom Cruise 's mother, Mary Lee South, has died at the age of 80, a source confirms to Us Weekly .

According to  People , which was first to report the news, South, who dealt with health issues in recent years, died peacefully in her sleep sometime last week. She was remembered at a memorial service at her local Church of Scientology over the weekend. Cruise, 54, and his sisters, Lee Ann DeVette, Cass Mapother, and Marian Henry, attended the ceremony along with other close friends and family members.

Related: PHOTOS: Celebrity Deaths in 2016: Stars We’ve Lost

South, born Mary Lee Pfeiffer, was a special education teacher when she married Cruise's father, Thomas Cruise Mapother III. The family lived in Syracuse, New York, and Ottawa, Canada. South divorced Mapother in 1974 before returning to the United States.

The three-time Golden Globe winner shared a close relationship with his mother, particularly when he was growing up. He credited his love for acting to his mom, whose lifelong dream was to become a star. "I was always interested in theater, but I never did anything with it," South told Rolling Stone in 1986. "When I was growing up, if you went to Hollywood, that was really risqué."

Related: PHOTOS: Stars and Their Moms

South married Jack South in 1978 after her family moved to Glen Ridge, New Jersey. In high school, Cruise injured his knee, putting his wrestling days on hold. His mom encouraged him to audition for his school's production of Guys and Dolls , which further developed his love for show business.

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"I can't describe the feeling that was there [on opening night]," South told Rolling Stone . "It was just an incredible experience to see what we felt was a lot of talent coming forth all of a sudden. It had been dormant for so many years — not thought of or talked about or discussed in any way. Then to see him on that stage …"

Related: PHOTOS: Celebrity Scientologists

Eventually, Cruise moved to New York City before landing a small role in 1981's romantic drama  Endless Love , which starred Brooke Shields . He became a household name two years later with Risky Business , in which he famously danced around in his underwear. In the following years, Cruise went on to star in Top Gun , Rain Man , Born on the Fourth of July , A Few Good Men , Jerry Maguire  and many more blockbusters.

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Tom Cruise’s mother, Mary Lee South, dies

Mary Lee South, the mother of Tom Cruise, has died, WHO ‘s sister website PEOPLE has learned exclusively.

South, 80, died peacefully in her sleep last week. South, who coped with health issues in recent years, was given a memorial service at her local Church of Scientology this weekend.

The 54-year-old star and his sisters Lee Ann DeVette, 57, Cass Mapother, 55, and Marian Henry, 52, all attended the memorial along with other family and friends.

Born Mary Lee Pfeiffer, the Louisville, Kentucky, native was a special-education teacher when she wed Cruise’s father, Thomas Cruise Mapother III, an electrical engineer. It was from her that Cruise developed a passion for acting.

“I was always interested in theatre, but I never did anything with it,” she told Rolling Stone in 1986. “When I was growing up, if you went to Hollywood, that was really risqué.”

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The family lived in Syracuse, New York, where Cruise was born, and Ottawa, Canada. When Cruise was young, his mother encouraged him to participate in a local theatre group. “I guess I was his greatest audience,” she said. “He had it in him then.” But Cruise’s love of sports took precedence as he grew up.

Her marriage to Mapother was tumultuous. Cruise told WHO i n 2006 that his father was “a bully.” Mary Lee ended the marriage in 1974.

She returned to the United States, and worked a series of jobs to keep her family out of poverty. Cruise helped with money from a paper route. He even massaged his mother’s sore feet after she came home from long days at work.

That close relationship continued when the family relocated to Glen Ridge, New Jersey, and Mary Lee wed Jack South in 1978, when Cruise was 16. “He loved my mother so much that he took us all in, all four young people,” Cruise later recalled.

After a knee injury sidelined his varsity wrestling career, Mary Lee encouraged him to try out for a high school production of Guys and Dolls. After the play, Cruise surprised his mother by asking if he could have 10 years to give show business a try. She approved, and with her support, he waited tables in New York City before breaking into the movies.

The close mother-son relationship continued as he became a box office star. 

As for South, she never doubted her son would be a success. When Cruise asked her and her second husband if he could be an actor, “We both wholeheartedly agreed,” she told Rolling Stone . “Because we both felt it was a God-given talent … So to make a long story short, we gave him our blessing — and the rest is history.”

Related stories

Tom Cruise's Mother, Mary Lee South, Dies At Age 80

Tom Cruise’s mother, Mary Lee South, has died. People magazine confirms the 80-year-old, who suffered health problems in recent years, died peacefully in her sleep last week.

Cruise and his three sisters – Lee Ann DeVette, Cass Mapother, and Marian Henry – all attended the memorial service at South’s local Church of Scientology.

Tom Cruise and mother Mary Lee South attend the 47th Annual Golden Globe Awards on January 20, 1990 at Beverly Hilton Hotel in Beverly Hills, California. (Photo by Ron Galella, Ltd./WireImage)>

South was a special-education teacher and was the reason Cruise got into acting, as she always had an interest in it herself.

“I was always interested in theatre, but I never did anything with it,” she told Rolling Stone in 1986. “When I was growing up, if you went to Hollywood, that was really risqué.”

Thanks to South’s encouragement and support from her and her second husband , Cruise decided to pursue acting and went on to become one of Hollywood’s biggest celebrities.

Tom Cruise and mother Mary Lee South attend the Eighth Annual American Cinema Awards on January 12, 1991 at Beverly Hilton Hotel in Beverly Hills, California. (Photo by Ron Galella, Ltd./WireImage)

“We both wholeheartedly agreed [to let him act], because we both felt it was a God-given talent, and he should explore it because he was so enthused about it,” she told the magazine. “So to make a long story short, we gave him our blessing – and the rest is history.”

Cruise has previously called his mother his hero and the two were reportedly very close.

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From Our Partner

Syracuse native Tom Cruise's mother Mary Lee South dies at age 80

• Updated: Feb. 14, 2017, 3:05 p.m.
• | Published: Feb. 14, 2017, 2:05 p.m.
• Geoff Herbert | [email protected]

Tom Cruise, Mary Lee South

Tom Cruise arrives with his mother, Mary South, for the 61st Annual Golden Globe Awards in Beverly Hills, Calif. Sunday, Jan. 25, 2004.

(Mark J. Terrill | AP)

Syracuse native Tom Cruise's mother Mary Lee South is dead, according to multiple reports. She was 80.

A rep for Cruise told ET  that South died peacefully in her sleep last week after battling recent health issues. The 54-year-old actor attended a memorial service at her local Church of Scientology over the weekend with his sisters, Lee Ann DeVette, 57, Cass Mapother, 55, and Marian Henry, 52, and other family members and friends.

South reportedly moved from Los Angeles last year to Clearwater, Florida, closer to the Church of Scientology headquarters. Cruise is the world's most famous Scientologist and his mother is also a member of the religion.

According to People , South was born Mary Lee Pfeiffer in Louisville, Kentucky. She was a special education teacher who helped foster Cruise's love of acting.

"I was always interested in theater, but I never did anything with it," she told  Rolling Stone  in 1986. "When I was growing up, if you went to Hollywood, that was really risque."

Cruise was born Thomas Cruise Mapother IV in Syracuse, New York, in 1962 to South and Thomas Cruise Mapother III, an electrical engineer. The family grew up near poverty and moved around several times; Cruise spent some of his formative years in Canada.

Actor Tom Cruise arrives at the 62nd Annual Academy Awards with his mom Mary Lee South, left, and actress Nicole Kidman, right, Monday, March 27, 1990, Los Angeles, Calif.

South divorced Mapother in 1974 amid allegations of abuse; Cruise, who was 11 at the time, later told Parade  his father was a "bully" who beat him. Cruise didn't see Mapother again until about a decade later, shortly before he died of cancer.

South remarried in 1978 to Jack South in Glen Ridge, New Jersey.

"People can create their own lives," Cruise told Parade in 2006. "I saw how my mother created hers and so made it possible for us to survive. My mother was the one who rose to the occasion. She held three jobs. She said, 'We're going to get through this.'  "And I decided that I'm going to create, for myself, who I am, not what other people say I should be. I'm entitled to that."

Cruise initially pursued sports, but a knee injury sidelined him from soccer and wrestling. According to People, his mother encouraged him to try out for a production of "Guys and Dolls" at Glen Ridge High School, and the rest is history.

A year after graduation, Cruise landed roles in "Endless Love" and "Taps." By 1986, he became a blockbuster star behind films like "Top Gun" and "Risky Business," and remains one of the world's most recognized actors.

Cruise remained close with his mother through the years. He brought South to the Oscars and the Golden Globes, as well as movie premieres for "Mission: Impossible" and "Magnolia."

His upcoming films include "Mission: Impossible 6" and "The Mummy" reboot.

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Tom Cruise's Mother Mary Lee South Dies at 80

She passed away in her sleep.

Tom Cruise 's mother, Mary Lee South , has passed away. She was 80.

According to People , South died peacefully in her sleep. She was honored in a memorial at her local Church of Scientology this weekend, where Cruise and his sisters,  Lee Ann DeVette , 57, Cass Mapother , 55, and Marian Henry , 52, all attended. They were joined by other members of their family and friends. 

The Louisville, Kentucky, native was born Mary Lee Pfeiffer  and went on to marry Cruise's father,  Thomas Cruise Mapother III . The former couple divorced in 1974 after a tumultuous marriage, leading the  Mission: Impossible star to describe his father as a "bully."

Cruise always credited his mother for driving his passion for acting. She opened up to Rolling Stone  in 1986 about her son's success, saying how grateful she was for encouraging him to join local theater groups. But it wasn't until the opening night of his production of  Guys and Dolls in high school that she realized how talented her son was. 

"I can't describe the feeling that was there. It was just an incredible experience to see what we felt was a lot of talent coming forth all of a sudden," she said. "It had been dormant for so many years—not thought of or talked about or discussed in any way. Then to see him on that stage..."

Of his fan base and early years, South added, "I guess I was his greatest audience. He had it in him then."

After South's divorce, the family moved around and ultimately settled down in New Jersey, where South married  Jack South . Cruise opened up about his stepfather to the magazine, gushing about how much he must have adored his mother. "He loved my mother so much that he took us all in, all four young people," Cruise said.

Our thoughts and prayers go out to her family.

Tom Cruise's Mother Dead at 80

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Tom Cruise's mother, Mary Lee South, has died.

South died peacefully in her sleep last week, after coping with health issues in recent years, Cruise's rep confirms to ET. She was given a memorial service at an undisclosed Church of Scientology this weekend.

She was 80 years old.

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The 54-year-old actor and his three sisters -- Lee Ann Devette, Marian Henry and Cass Mapother -- were all in attendance at the memorial, People reports.

ET talked to Cruise at the Jack Reacher premiere in October, when he talked about his mother's unwavering belief in him. "I know that she is just obviously very proud, and kind of I guess, just amazed, you know, because you talk about something, you dream about something, and she knows I used to work jobs so I could make money and I could go to the movies," he recalled. "I would make movies one day, and for it to happen, and on the level that it is happening ... I know she just is really proud."

South was a special education teacher, and is credited with inspiring Cruise's acting career. "I was always interested in theater, but I never did anything with it," she said in a 1986 interview with Rolling Stone about her own love of acting.

She and her second husband later supported Cruise when he decided to pursue acting full time.

"We both wholeheartedly agreed, because we both felt it was a God-given talent, and he should explore it because he was so enthused about it," she recalled to the magazine. "So to make a long story short, we gave him our blessing – and the rest is history."

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ET last spoke to Cruise in December, when he talked about working with Russell Crowe for the first time in The Mummy.

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Tom Cruise's mother Mary Lee South dies at 80

Tom Cruise ’s mother Mary Lee South has died, according to People magazine . The 80-year-old, who has battled health issues in recent years, passed away peacefully in her sleep last week. A memorial service for the actor’s mom was held over the weekend at her local Church of Scientology, which Tom is a devout member. The service was attended by Katie Holmes’ ex-husband and his three sisters — Lee Ann DeVette, 57, Cass Mapother, 55, and Marian Henry, 52.

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Photo: Jeff Kravitz/FilmMagic

The former special education teacher originally wanted to be an actress but never pursued a career in Hollywood. “I was always interested in theater, but I never did anything with it,” she told Rolling Stone in 1986. “When I was growing up, if you went to Hollywood, that was really risqué.”

GALLERY: CELEBS WE'VE LOST IN 2017

Like Mary, Tom showed an interest in acting at an early age. The Hollywood star’s mom said, “He used to create skits and imitate Donald Duck and Woody Woodpecker and W.C. Fields when he was just a tiny tot. I guess I was his greatest audience. He had it in him then. But as he got older, he was more into sports, and it stopped completely."

Photo: Noel Vasquez/Getty Images

Then in his senior year in Glen Ridge, New Jersey, Tom decided to audition for his high school’s musical production of  Guys and Dolls . Recalling opening night, Mary admitted, “I can't describe the feeling that was there. It was just an incredible experience to see what we felt was a lot of talent coming forth all of a sudden. It had been dormant for so many years – not thought of or talked about or discussed in any way. Then to see him on that stage . . . "

Following his performance the budding star told his parents he wanted ten years to give show business a try. Mary revealed, “We both wholeheartedly agreed, because we both felt it was a God-given talent, and he should explore it because he was so enthused about it. So to make a long story short, we gave him our blessing – and the rest is history."

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‘Warm, charismatic woman’: Tom Cruise’s mother, who inspired him to act, dead at 80

Like many teenagers, Thomas Cruise Mapother IV was lost.

Throughout a tumultuous childhood, which included moving cities several times and an estranged father, sports provided a natural outlet for his pent-up anger, confusion and fear. Then a knee injury in the winter of his senior year of high school ended his burgeoning wrestling career.

That’s when, as People noted , his mom, Mary Lee South, suggested he try out for his Glen Ridge, N.J., high school’s production of “Guys and Dolls.” Heeding his mother’s wisdom, he auditioned and was cast as Nathan Detroit, one of the musical’s major characters.

Weeks later, he had just finished bowing after his first, exhilarating performance. Still warm from bathing in the spotlight, the teenager rushed to his mom and stepfather.

Ex-Scientologists tell disturbing stories about David Miscavige, the ‘pope of Scientology,’ on A&E series

“After the show,” South told Rolling Stone in 1986, “Tom came home and said he wanted to have a talk with my husband and me. He asked for ten years to give show business a try. …  And we both wholeheartedly agreed, because we both felt it was a God-given talent, and he should explore it because he was so enthused about it. So to make a long story short, we gave him our blessing — and the rest is history.”

That history, of course, consisted of Mapother’s move to Hollywood, where he shortened his name to Tom Cruise and became one of the silver screen’s most famous stars. Through all that, he remained close to his mother. He often brought her to movie premieres, and in 2001 The Washington Post’s Reliable Source noted that the two were seen dining at Old Ebbit Grill.

“My mother is a very warm, charismatic woman. Very kind, very generous,” Cruise once told interviewer James Lipton.

South died in her sleep last week, People reported Monday. She was 80 years old.

The weird thing Tom Cruise does during interviews, and other revelations from a celebrity reporter

While that first production was important in Cruise’s development as an actor, perhaps the most important thing he gained from his mother was his tireless work ethic and the virtue of patience. He was 11 years old when his parents divorced, and he wouldn’t see his father again for 10 years, as he told Lipton. Cruise, not yet a teenager, began working to support his mom and three sisters.

“No job was too dirty or difficult for Tommy, as long as it paid money to help his mom out,” neighbor Bill Lewis told Andrew Morton, the author of Cruise’s unauthorized biography .

Meanwhile, his mother took on three part-time jobs, eventually slipping a disk in her back from the stress. “My mom could have sat there every morning and cried and cried,” Cruise said, according to Lewis. “She didn’t. My mom was very proud. She had dignity. She’s going to work hard.”

The family still required federal food stamps to ensure everyone remained fed, certainly a far cry from the dreams of a younger South.

“I was always interested in theater, but I never did anything with it,” South told Rolling Stone. “When I was growing up, if you went to Hollywood, that was really risque. I would have lost my religion, my morals, all those things that young girls thought of back then.”

Cruise seemed to reflect his mother’s interests. “He used to create skits and imitate Donald Duck and Woody Woodpecker and W.C. Fields when he was just a tiny tot. I guess I was his greatest audience,” she said. But he mostly lacked the time to pursue them. He spent the time not dedicated to work and sports with his mother.

“Every night I’d come home, bathe my feet and sit in the family room, and Tom would massage my feet for a half-hour,” South told Rolling Stone. “This went on for six weeks, then Easter came and went, and the Monday after Easter I came home from work expecting the same treatment. And he said, ‘Hey Mom — Lent’s over.'”

Since skyrocketing to fame, Cruise paid his mother back in spades for her sacrifices. As inTouch reported in 2008, he often housed South, his sister Cass and her two children. “He’s very close with his sisters and his mother and he always welcomes his family into his house,” an unnamed source told the magazine.

As for South, she clearly loved seeing her son shine. Thinking back to that first performance, she told Rolling Stone, “I can’t describe the feeling that was there. It was just an incredible experience to see what we felt was a lot of talent coming forth all of a sudden. It had been dormant for so many years — not thought of or talked about or discussed in any way.”

A service, attended by Cruise and his three sisters, was held for South this weekend at her local Church of Scientology.

Tom Cruise's Mom, Mary Lee South, Has Died

Tom Cruise's mom, Mary Lee South, has passed away at the age of 80, People reports. Mary died in her sleep last week after battling health issues in recent years and was given a memorial service at her local Church of Scientology over the weekend. Several of her family members and friends attended the service along with Tom and his sisters, Lee Ann DeVette, Cass Mapother, and Marian Henry.

Mary was a special-education teacher, and it was from her that Tom developed his passion for acting. The two were incredibly close, and back in 1986, Mary opened up about her son's success to Rolling Stone magazine, saying that she and her second husband both "wholeheartedly agreed" that Tom could be an actor "because we both felt it was a God-given talent." Our thoughts are with Tom and his family.

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Tom Cruise’s mother dies at 80. He attends memorial at Church of Scientology

Tom cruise’s mother passed away at 80. the mission impossible star attended a memorial service at a local church of scientology..

Actor Tom Cruise, who lost his mother, Mary Lee South, last week, attended her memorial service at her local Church of Scientology.

The Mission: Impossible star’s mother died peacefully in her sleep after battling health issues at the age of 80.

Cruise, 54, was joined by his three sisters, Lee Ann DeVette, 57, Cass Mapother, 55, and Marian Henry, 52, as well as other family and friends, reported People magazine.

South, who split from Tom’s father, Thomas Cruise Mapother III, in 1974, was using a walker and looked thinner than usual when she was last seen in Clearwater, Florida in May 2016.

RIP. 👼🏼💔Our thoughts are with #TomCruise and his family during this difficult time. Link in bio has the sad details. (📷: Getty Images) http://bit.ly/2lItyBo A post shared by @closerweekly on Feb 13, 2017 at 2:54pm PST

Our hearts go out to #TomCruise following the sad news of his beloved mother Mary Lee South passing away at the age of 80. For more head to the #linkinbio A post shared by Woman's Day Magazine Australia (@womansdayaus) on Feb 13, 2017 at 2:21pm PST

❤️#tomcruise #maryleepfeiffer #cruiser #forever #love# A post shared by Tom Cruise Forever (@cruiser.forever) on Feb 13, 2017 at 11:44pm PST

#TomCruise mother #MaryLeePfeiffer died at 80 #RIP A post shared by BUNNY (@ray_ferrier) on Feb 13, 2017 at 7:43pm PST

Cruise, along with his mom moved to New Jersey when he was 16, after she got married to John “Jack” South in 1978.

The actor had a close relationship with his mom and she often attended his premieres.

The 54-year-old actor developed his passion for acting from his mom, who was a special-education teacher.

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Tom Cruise's mother Mary Lee dies in her sleep at age 80 and is remembered with Scientology service

• Mary Lee South died in her sleep last week after battling a long illness
• Her service was held over the weekend at her local Church of Scientology
• South was last seen looking frail in May 2016 in Clearwater, Florida 
• She had a close relationship with Tom whose premieres she often attended  

By Heidi Parker For Dailymail.com

Published: 15:14 EDT, 13 February 2017 | Updated: 01:16 EDT, 14 February 2017

View comments

Tom Cruise's mother Mary Lee South died last week at the age of 80.

She passed away in her sleep after battling a long illness, according to a Monday report from TMZ .

Cruise, 54, and his three sisters were at her service held this weekend at her local Church of Scientology, according to  People . 

Scroll down for video 

Sad loss: Tom Cruise was at the service for his mother Mary Lee who passed away last week at age 80. Pictured 2009

Last image: Mary Lee was last seen in Clearwater, Florida in May 2016 using a walker and looking thinner than usual

Still smiling: She was also seen in a golf cart with a woman

Tom's three sisters are Lee Ann DeVette, 57, Cass Mapother, 55, and Marian Henry, 52.

Also at the service were several close friends and family members. 

Mary Lee was last seen in Clearwater, Florida in May 2016 using a walker and looking thinner than usual.

She also appeared to have oxygen tubes attached to her. 

Before that, she had not been seen since 2010.  

Mary split from Tom's father, Thomas Cruise Mapother III, in 1974.

She went on to move to New Jersey and marry John 'Jack' South in 1978, when Tom was 16.

SCIENTOLOGY FUNERAL SERVICES

The widely publicized religion of Tom Cruise and his late mother Mary entails a similarly unique funeral service for the passing of its members.

Characterized by the belief that the body is mortal, but soul is immortal, the service includes a focus on the future. Friends and family have the opportunity to say goodbye to their loved one, as they celebrate their life and 'end the cycle' of mortality.

Scientologists believe that the soul continues on into the next life, and are 'immortal spirits', who exist infinitely.

They are generally held in Scientology chapels and officiated by a Scientology minister. Passages are read from the religion's founder, science fiction writer R.L. Hubbard.

The officiant recites a lengthy reading, written by Hubbard, in which he addresses the deceased person by name and encourages them to move on to the next life.

One poetic passage says: 'From century to century / From age to age and on / We go in march along / The path that leads / Forever up the countless ticks of time. We crawl, we walk, we fly, We win. From here and evermore /The heritage of all our lives and spend it once again.'

Tokens to the deceased person seen in traditional funeral services are generally not as widely seen during Scientology services. In terms of the body, there is not a unified practice - such as an open casket or cremation.

Sometimes the body will be lying in wake, or the ashes will be present - in some cases, just a photo of the 'thetan', a term for a being who has lived several lifetimes, can be displayed.

Sociology professor  Stephen Kent of the University of Alberta told E! News : 'The body is relatively unimportant. It's the thetan that is attached to the body that is the focus. The purpose is to wish the thetan well on its future journeys and luck in future incarnations.' 

Her new neighborhood: A look at Clearwater, Florida, which is the headquarters for the Church Of Scientology

Both Mary and her husband were supportive of Tom's dreams to become an actor.

Mary previously explaining how he told them of his ambitions after he starred in a high-school production of Guys And Dolls.

She said: 'After the show, Tom came home and said he wanted to have a talk with my husband and me. 

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He kept an eye on her: Mary Lee in 2010 when she joined Tom and his son Connor at the New York Yankees and Los Angeles Dodgers game in LA

They embraced his third wife: Mary Lee with Katie Holmes and Tom's sister Marian in 2007

'He asked for 10 years to give show business a try. Meanwhile, my husband's thinking, 'What's this gonna cost me? Ten years of what?'

'Tom said, 'I really feel that this is what I want to do.'

With her last husband: At the premiere of the 2005 film War Of The Worlds in New York City with John South, who she divorced years later

Always by his side: Cruise, 54, and his mother in 1991

'And we both wholeheartedly agreed, because we both felt it was a God-given talent, and he should explore it because he was so enthused about it.

'So to make a long story short, we gave him our blessing and the rest is history.'

Mary and John divorced in 2012 and he passed away in 2015 at age 89 after a battle with chronic obstructive pulmonary disease.

Meanwhile, Tom enjoyed a close relationship with his mother, with a source previously explaining: 'Tom is extremely close with Mary, she's been the rock in his life for as long as he can remember.'

Last year Mary moved from Los Angeles to Clearwater, Florida, near the worldwide headquarters for Scientology.

His career keeps going on: The movie star with his Jack Reacher co-star Cobie Smulders at the film's Louisiana premiere in October

Tight: She attended the premiere of Tom's film Magnolia in 1999

A source said: 'Mary decided to live in a quiet area 20 minutes drive away from the hub where most people walk the streets wearing Scientology colors.

'It can be intense at the church and nobody bothers her now. She's got herself a peaceful retreat with lake views where she is cared for by a nurse.

'It must remind her of time living in Marco Island [Florida] with South, who passed away last year.'

Cruise was last in the film Jack Reacher with Cobie Smulders. The next two films for the ex-husband of Nicole Kidman and Katie Holmes will be The Mummy and American Made.

The star is also in pre-production on M:I 6 - Mission Impossible.

With his second wife: South is here flanked by Nicole Kidman and Tom at the Mission: Impossible premiere in 1996

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Suri Cruise spotted in New York as dad Tom Cruise prepares for Olympics closing ceremony in Paris

Suri Cruise is growing to look more like her mother Katie Holmes each day.

The 18-year-old high school graduate was recently spotted running errands in New York City on Friday ahead of her starting college this fall. As she was walking through the town she sported a teddy hoodie, blue joggers, and suede shoes. Suri’s long brunette hair was worn straight and she looked very cozy and comfortable.

It seems that Tom Cruise ’s daughter with Katie was tying up some loose ends before she started a new chapter in her life. Earlier this summer Suri graduated from LaGuardia High School of Music & Art and Performing Arts.

READ MORE: Inside Tom Cruise's bond with 'loyal' son Connor, 29, who is only child close to him

READ MORE: Celebrity children turning 18 this year - from big birthday bashes to new cars and sentimental gifts

Her mom was there to witness her walking across the stage, meanwhile, her movie star dad was not in attendance, but instead at a Taylor Swift concert. In recent years, the Top Gun star and Suri have been estranged. Suri’s graduation officially marked the start of her adult life, which she’s kicking off with a new name.

“In her school's graduation ceremony program, Suri goes by "Suri Noelle" instead of ‘Suri Cruise,’” according to People. Ms. Suri Noelle is now set to be a student at Carnegie Mellon, where she is “leaning towards” studying fashion, according to The Daily Mail.

“She is a smart girl, and she is turning into a very intelligent mature young woman,” an insider divulged to the media outlet. “She has a very close group of loyal friends, and she knows exactly where she comes from.”

READ MORE: Tom Cruise spotted boarding a helicopter ahead of epic Paris Olympics closing ceremony

READ MORE: Tom Cruise's eldest children Isabella and Connor 'do not associate' with Suri

Although the young woman seems ready to take on the world, Katie is reportedly “overwhelmed” at the thought of Suri attending school in Pittsburgh.

“Katie takes great pride in her but is also extremely overprotective,” a source revealed to the news outlet. Since Tom and Katie divorced in 2012, following six years of marriage, Suri has been seen mostly with Katie. Just 10 days after their divorce was finalized, Katie got primary custody of Suri, and Tom was granted visitation, per People.

It was reported that the Mission Impossible icon paid Katie $400,000 per year until Suri’s 18th birthday, and is now going to pay her college fees. Suri and Tom have been photographed together for 11 years because he allegedly has distanced himself from her because of religion.

“Every person is allowed to see their child if they wanted to,” a source told US Weekly. “He chooses not to because she is not a Scientologist.” Tom is set to close the 2024 Paris Olympics on Sunday.

Click here to follow the Mirror US on Google News to stay up to date with all the latest news, sport and entertainment stories.

Inside Tom Cruise's relationship with Suri and complex family struggles

As Tom Cruise prepares to make a spectacular entrance at the Olympic Games 2024 closing ceremony, we take a look at his relationship with his three children

• 17:59, 11 Aug 2024

Tom Cruise is expected to perform an epic stunt by rappelling down from the top of Stade de France during tonight's Olympic Games 2024 closing ceremony.

His eldest children will likely be among the fans watching their father's impressive feat. However, his youngest child may not share the same enthusiasm.

The Top Gun star reportedly shares a close bond with his son Connor, who resides in a Scientology community in Clearwater, Florida, and often accompanies his father on promotional tours worldwide. This is quite different from his strained relationship with his daughter Suri , who was seen enjoying the New York sunshine earlier today.

Click here to follow the Mirror US on Google News to stay up to date with all the latest news, sport and entertainment stories.

READ MORE: Tom Cruise cheers on US Women's soccer team to gold amid closing ceremony speculation

READ MORE: Tom Cruise branded 'a disgrace' by activists ahead of Paris Olympics closing ceremony

Reports suggest that the Hollywood actor hasn't seen her since his contentious split and custody battle with actress Katie Holmes in 2012. It's believed that Tom's religious beliefs led to the dissolution of their marriage as Katie had concerns about raising Suri within the Church of Scientology.

As a result, the father and daughter are reportedly estranged, reports the Mirror . However, Tom's other adopted children, who are often overlooked, continue to hold high positions within the Church of Scientology.

Unlike Suri, the elder two distanced themselves from their mother Nicole Kidman but maintain a close relationship with their father. Isabella and Connor Cruise were adopted by Tom and Nicole in 1992 and 1995 respectively.

When the Hollywood power couple divorced in 2001, they shared joint custody. However, when their mother moved back to Australia, the children chose to stay in LA with their father.

Tom Cruise raised his children, Bella and Connor, within the Church of Scientology, and they have risen to become prominent figures within the controversial religion. "Connor and Isabella grew up in the church of Scientology, they've been members since they were kids," an insider disclosed to PEOPLE in 2019, noting that like their father Tom, they are "completely dedicated Scientologists just like Tom."

Nicole Kidman has experienced a distant relationship with her children due to her supposed status as an "SP" [Suppressive Person], which has led to them keeping their distance from her. In a 2007 GMTV interview, Nicole lamented that her children "don't even call me 'Mom'" and expressed her dislike for being referred to by her first name.

In a heartfelt admission to WHO magazine in 2018, Nicole said: "They have made the choice to be Scientologists and as a mother, it's my job to love them. And I am an example of that tolerance and that's what I believe - that no matter what your child does, the child has love and the child has to know there is available love and I'm open here."

She emphasized the importance of unconditional love for a child, stating: "I think that's so important because if that is taken away from a child, to sever that in any child, in any relationship, in any family - I believe it's wrong. So that's our job as a parent, to always offer unconditional love."

Despite her efforts, Nicole's relationship with Bella and Connor has been fraught; she was notably absent from both of their weddings. Reports suggest that Nicole was not aware of Bella's marriage to British IT consultant Max Parker in 2015 until after the fact.

While Tom Cruise also did not receive an invitation to Bella's wedding, he was informed about the event and reportedly paid for it. Bella continues to live in a three-bedroom house in Croydon, south London, even turning down Tom's generous offer to reside in his $428,000 penthouse when she first moved to the UK full-time in 2017. This luxurious apartment is situated near 10 Downing Street and features an indoor swimming pool.

In other news, Connor tied the knot with an Italian woman named Silvia Zanchi, a fellow Scientologist who was also raised in the religion. Nicole was reportedly 'banned' from their wedding by Tom.

"Tom is behind this and what he wants is as good as law," a source revealed to Radar Online in 2019, "Tom made the call and Connor followed."

The insider further added that Connor "worships the ground his father walks on" and said: "First, Tom would never even consider inviting Nicole to Connor's wedding because she's considered a 'suppressive person' by the church - and, second, he doesn't want her there."

Despite everything, Nicole never gave up on her "lost babies" and began reconnecting with them since the lockdowns started in 2021 during the coronavirus pandemic. Bella has now achieved 'auditor' status in the UK branch of the church, which means she can now interrogate other Scientology followers using an e-meter - a type of lie detector.

In a rare promotional email sent to Scientologists in London, obtained by the Sun, Bella wrote: "Thank you to my Dad for everything. I would have drowned in my own problems if you hadn't been there to sup me or get me through the preliminaries."

Bella Cruise has dived into the creative realm, launching her own fashion line. Meanwhile, Connor Cruise keeps a low profile as a notable figure in the Church of Scientology based at its headquarters in Clearwater, Florida.

Katie Holmes was determined to have full custody to distance her daughter Suri from the influence of Scientology, amidst worries about her education in a Scientology-imbued environment in California.

Tom Cruise conceded in a 2013 deposition that Scientology played a critical part in the discord with Suri. When pressed by lawyers if Holmes divorced him partly to shield Suri from Scientology, Cruise confirmed, "That was one of the assertions, yes."

In reports surfacing in 2016, it came to light that Cruise may not have seen Suri for three years, allegedly due to Scientology doctrines disallowing contact with 'nonbelievers'. Despite this, insiders explained to Page Six that he had the opportunity to visit Suri, citing that "celebrities get to break all the rules".

Reports suggest that Tom Cruise is a stranger to his 18-year-old daughter, who is reportedly about to move into her dorm at Carnegie Mellon University in Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania. As part of their divorce agreement, Tom agreed to pay Katie Holmes $400,000 per month until their daughter turns 18, and also cover "medical, dental, insurance, education, college and other extracurricular costs."

An insider revealed to the Daily Mail: "Suri does not know her father anymore and she has not spent time with him in a decade. She does not go to see his movies and he has no part in her life."

Following her recent high school graduation, it was reported by several outlets that Suri had changed her last name from Cruise to Noelle - a nod to her 45-year-old mother, whose middle name is Noelle. Page Six posted a picture of the supposed graduation program, highlighting the name 'Suri Noelle', as credited to celebrity news agency Backgrid.

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An attractive man moving in next door could be a good thing, but not when he's your ex.

Although this drama is called Romance in the House, the apartment building in question is home to more than romance. Some arson maybe. A murder, possibly? A person who comes back from the dead.

One of the tenants of the apartment building is Byeon Mi-rae, played by Son Na-eun. Mi-rae is a talented food merchandiser, who works hard to send her younger brother through school. Her dad, Byeon Moo-jin, played by Ji Jin-hee, had several businesses fail before Mi-rae’s mom, Geum Ye-yeon, played by Kim Ji-soo, decided to end the marriage. Raising the kids by herself was a struggle but they were lucky to have an affordable apartment. However, when the owner of the apartment building dies during a suspicious house fire, they are summoned to the real estate agency office and asked whether they want to move out of their apartment.

Turns out the new building owner is Moo-jin. Yes, that Moo-jin, the father they thought was dead. He’s also rich now and owns the building. If he hasn’t actually been dead for the past year, it’s a little odd that he neglected to stay in touch or mention he was alive. The death of the previous owner was mysterious and it’s easy to imagine he was involved. While he still has feelings for his ex-wife and wants to get closer to his family, Mi-rae isn’t having any of it. She doesn’t want him anywhere near her mother.

Mi-rae has some romantic issues of her own. She has a problematic ex-boyfriend, played by Daniel Choi, and a potential new boyfriend, Nam Tae-pyeong, played sweetly by SHINee’s Minho. Tae-pyeong is a security guard at her company, but he’s hiding a secret.

Like so many Korean dramas this year, a central theme of Romance in the House is divorce. Moo-jin and Ye-yeum may work their way back from divorce like the characters did in The Queen of Tears. Or divorce might finally offer Ye-yeun another chance at love like Jang Nara’s character will hopefully get in Good Partner. It’s hard to imagine exactly where thisstoryline plans to go. Since the first episode features divorce and a grizzly death plus a meet cute, it could go in any direction. Is Moo-jin a lucky entrepreneur or a greedy arsonist? A misunderstood dad who meant well or someone the family was well rid of. As Mi-rae says in the second episode, “it’s the beginning of total madness.”

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It’s an interesting cast. Son Na-eun previously appeared in the dramas Lost , Ghost Doctor and Agency. Ji Jin-hee can be seen in Designated Survivor: 60 Days, Misty and Move To Heaven . Kim Ji-soo appears in High Class, 365: Repeat The Year, Where Stars Land and Hwarang. Minho appeared in Yumi’s Cells , Lovestruck in the City, and also had a role in Hwarang. Minho is not the only k-pop star with a role in the drama. Mi-rae’s younger brother is played by Yoon San-ha, a member of the k-pop band Astro.

The JTBC drama is directed by Kim Da-ye and airs on Netflix.

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Suri cruise, 18, looks just like mom katie holmes in off-the-shoulder blouse while out with friends in nyc.

Suri Cruise is making the most of her summer before starting college this fall.

The 18-year-old daughter of Tom Cruise and Katie Holmes was photographed out and about with friends in New York City on Wednesday.

Suri looked just like her famous mom in an off-the-shoulder green top, colorful striped pants and brown slides.

The teen slung a tote bag over one shoulder and carried a vintage camera in the other hand.

Suri, who recently dropped her dad’s surname , seemed to be in great spirits while laughing and chatting with her friends, who all seemed to be carrying overnight bags.

The brunette beauty is soaking up her final few weeks in NYC before starting classes at Carnegie Mellon University later this month.

Suri revealed she would be moving to Pittsburgh for college in June after a pal posted a Tiktok of her repping the school for LaGuardia High School’s commitment day.

In the since-deleted video, Suri proudly rocked a red crewneck with Carnegie Mellon emblazoned on the front.

A few weeks later, the teen celebrated the end of her high school career at prom with friends.

Suri showed up to the dance in a patterned bodice-style gown with gold heels. She wore her hair down in loose waves and matched her rosy makeup to her dress.

The college student was photographed posing for pictures with her date and a group of friends before entering the venue.

Just a couple of days later, Suri celebrated getting her diploma  with her mom by her side.

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Want celebrity news as it breaks? Hooked on Housewives?

The mother-daughter duo was all smiles while leaving Suri’s graduation ceremony together.

While Suri rocked a white dress underneath her red graduation robe, the “Dawson’s Creek” alum looked chic in pleated light yellow pants and a matching collared long-sleeve shirt.

Meanwhile, the “Top Gun” star was absent from the milestone event. Rather than attend his daughter’s big day, Tom was across the pond at Taylor Swift’s Eras Tour show in London.

The father-daughter duo have been estranged for most of Suri’s childhood, with sources previously telling us he plays “no part” in her life.

The “Mission Impossible” star and Holmes were married from 2006 to 2012 — and we’re told Tom hasn’t seen his daughter since their split.

It was later revealed in court documents that Holmes filed for divorce “to protect” Suri from Tom’s role in the Church of Scientology.

“Katie has safeguarded Suri and she’s a devoted mom,” our insider shared in April.

Now that Suri is 18 , she has the opportunity to reconcile with her father. However, if her name change is any indication, a reunion between the two seems very unlikely.

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Jenna ortega reveals denzel washington movie that “changed the entire course of my existence”.

The actress said the movie, also starring Dakota Fanning, is what inspired her to become an actor.

By Carly Thomas

Carly Thomas

Associate Editor

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Jenna Ortega is revealing the name of the Denzel Washington film that inspired her to start her acting career.

The Emmy-nominated actress, who has gone on to star in hit projects including the Scream franchise, You , Wednesday and the upcoming Beetlejuice Beetlejuice sequel, recently told Vanity Fair in a wide-ranging interview that it was 2004’s Man on Fire that “changed the entire course of my existence.”

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The Tony Scott-directed thriller, starring Washington and Dakota Fanning , follows former CIA operative John Creasy who sets out on a revenge-fueled rescue mission after 9-year-old Lupita Ramos, a girl he was hired as a bodyguard to protect, gets kidnapped.

Ortega told Vanity Fair that after watching Fanning’s performance as a child, she instantly knew what career path she wanted to take, and it was the one headed straight to Hollywood. And after her mother posted a video of her performing a dramatic monologue on Facebook, which a family friend passed on to a casting director, she was finally being driven by her mom to L.A. for auditions.

However, it’s only recently that Ortega is starting to accept that her life is forever changed, and will most likely keep changing.

“There’s so much about the pressure that is put on this line of work that I do, that it’s laughable and it’s beautiful and it’s awful,” sometimes all at once, she added.

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