Gina Gershon Recounts Tom Cruise's Gallantry During "Cocktail" Scene

In a candid revelation on "Watch What Happens Live," Hollywood actress Gina Gershon detailed how co-star Tom Cruise proved to be the quintessence of chivalry during the filming of their 1988 movie "Cocktail." As Gershon reminisced about her on-screen experience, she shared an amusing yet telling incident of her first sex scene, offering an insider's look into the professionalism and care conveyed by Cruise on set.

Gershon was questioned by the host, Andy Cohen, about any possible off-screen romantic link with Cruise, but the conversation quickly shifted to the duo's work experience. According to Gershon, during the filming of an intimate scene, an unplanned reaction to Cruise's attempt to elicit a genuine response resulted in a knee-to-face contact, nearly breaking his nose. This incident could have gone awry, but Cruise's gentlemanly approach turned it into an anecdote that now marks a fond memory for Gershon. Her praise for Cruise underscores the veteran actor's dedication to creating a considerate and supportive environment, emphasizing his protectiveness especially as Gershon was navigating her first love scene.

"Cocktail," while not a critical darling, stands testament to Cruise's burgeoning fame in the '80s, amassing significant box office success despite mixed reviews. Cruise's role as a business student turned bartender captured audiences worldwide, bolstering his standing as a Hollywood A-lister following successes like "Risky Business" and "Top Gun."

On the flip side, Gershon's journey in the industry took the road less traveled. Her decision to star in "Bound" – deemed controversial by her agents due to its focus on a lesbian relationship – showcases her determination to chase artistry over apprehension. The advice against accepting a role that could be detrimental to her career did not deter Gershon. Instead, she recognized the potential in the Wachowskis' script, which eventually resulted in a defining performance of her career.

Gershon's defiance of the taboo surrounding queer roles in the 90s and her commitment to what she believes in illustrates the systemic challenges actors can face when selecting roles that veer off the conventional path. Moreover, her account reflects a broader narrative of Hollywood's evolution in its representation of complex characters and relationships on screen.

For those interested in this intriguing snippet of film history, more insights are available through Gershon's complete interview on "Watch What Happens Live."