Akshay Kumar reveals the shocking inspiration behind his stunts; opens up on comparisons with Tom Cruise

In an interview Akshay Kumar, discussed how he incorporates action ideas from the classic cartoon duo and responded to comparisons with Hollywood's Tom Cruise.

Published: Wednesday,Jun 18, 2025 03:49 AM GMT-06:00

Yukta Khanna

Bollywood's original action star, Akshay Kumar has revealed that he draws inspiration for his stunts from an unexpected source: Tom & Jerry. In an interview with Pinkvilla, the actor discussed how he incorporates action ideas from the classic cartoon duo and responded to comparisons with Hollywood's Tom Cruise.

Akshay Kumar, known for performing his own stunts, humorously credited Tom & Jerry as his inspiration, rather than Hollywood comparisons, when discussing a viral airplane sequence from Khiladi 420. He downplayed similarities to Tom Cruise's stunts, highlighting his fondness for the classic cartoon.

“You know where I draw all this inspiration from? You will not believe it from Tom & Jerry," he said with a smile. Calling it “the most violent thing," Akshay added, “It is apparently made for children, but actually, if you look, there is so much action."

Akshay shared how the cartoon influenced specific scenes in his films, “I remember Tom coming from the helicopter, hanging and picking up Jerry – I did that in Sabse Bada Khiladi. Then, Tom is hanging on a plane, which is there in Khiladi 420."

Akshay mentioned that a stunt from Khatron Ke Khiladi was inspired by a scene where Tom and Jerry enjoyed wine mid-air in a hammock beneath a plane, highlighting the cartoon's influence on his work. "It is so violent. Please try to understand — it is a violent film you are showing your children," he said.

When questioned about the current status of "Hera Pheri 3," Akshay Kumar responded, "Whatever is happening is happening in front of you." He continued, "Keeping my fingers crossed. I hope everything goes well." Akshay remained optimistic, affirming, "Everything will go well only. I know, for sure."

Akshay Kumar is set to make his Telugu film debut in the fantasy mythological saga Kannappa, portraying Lord Shiva alongside Vishnu Manchu, with special appearances by Mohanlal and Prabhas. The film is slated for release on June 27, 2025.