Icons Unearthed: Tom Cruise

Tom Cruise steps into the spotlight, taking the lead in "Risky Business"; Paul Brickman is forced to change his ending.

Tom Cruise enters the danger zone as Tony Scott pushes the limits of the Navy and his actors to achieve his sun-kissed vision.

While remaining in the shadow of Dustin Hoffman's performance in "Rain Man", Tom is able to get his first Oscar nomination by breaking out of his mold in "Born On The 4th Of July."

Tom Cruise's next two films launch the careers of everyone around him while nearly delivering him that elusive Oscar; "Jerry Maguire" brings the award within reach.

Tom Cruise tests his limits, becoming a producer and taking on even riskier stunts; his personal life nearly sends his career spinning.

Tom pushes everyone to the limit, delivering a fitting sequel to Top Gun 30 years later; after Tony Scott's untimely death, Tom takes the lead in finding a story that speaks to him.