OK! Exclusive: Suri Is Tom's Salvation
Apr. 2 2008, Published 6:00 a.m. ET
Say what you want about Tom Cruise's wacky ways, his belief in scientology, and his previously over the top romance with wife Katie Holmes. As soon as he scoops his adorable (who turns 2 on April 18) up in his arms, you can't help but admire the love the star clearly has for his little girl.
"She is Daddy's little girl, and he doesn't know what he'd do without her," a friend of the Cruises tells OK!. "It has been the toughest patch Tom has had since his divorce from Nicole Kidman, Katie Holmes has been there for him, of course, and she's his rock, but when you see him with Suri, you just melt. He adores her."
On March 25, Tom and Suri enjoyed some father/daughter time at an L.A. playground, where eyewitnesses say Tom clearly radiated affection as he watched Suri playing with the other children.
"I couldn't believe my eyes when I saw them," a parkgoer tells OK!. "Suri was dressed up in this beautiful outfit and was down in the sand playing just like any other kid. Tom was letting her do her own thing, following her around just like any dad would.
- Suri Cruise Turns 18! Birthday Girl All Smiles in NYC as Source Claims Estranged Dad Tom Hasn't Seen Daughter Since 2012
- Britney Spears Says She's Feeling 'Very Katie Holmes' While Tanning in Pink Bikini After Sharing a Series of New Dance Videos
- Katie Holmes and Tom Cruise's Daughter Suri, 17, Lands Leading Role in Her High School Play, Fan Says 'She Was Amazing'
"He briefly spoke with a few of the other parents, shook a few hands and exchanged smiles. It looked like he wanted to give her a little playground outing."
At one point when Suri started to cry, a witness says, "Tom scooped her up, cuddled her and gave her several kisses on her cheek. It was very loving. Tom obviously cares deeply about that little girl."
For the full scoop on Tom and Suri, including four pages of beautiful photos of their day in the park, pick up the new issue of OK! — on sale everywhere Thursday!