After years of high-octane action, death-defying stunts, and globe-trotting adventures, Simon Pegg and Pom Klementieff are bidding farewell to the Mission: Impossible series. The two stars recently sat down to discuss their experiences working on the latest installment, Mission: Impossible – The Final Reckoning, which arrives in theaters this Friday.
For Pegg, who has been part of the franchise for nearly two decades, the departure is particularly poignant. He first appeared as tech specialist Benji Dunn in 2006’s Mission: Impossible III and has since become a fan-favorite character. Klementieff, who joined the series more recently, made a memorable impact as Paris, a fierce and enigmatic assassin seeking vengeance in the new film.
A Bittersweet Goodbye
Speaking about the emotional weight of wrapping up their journey, Pegg described the experience as “bittersweet.”
“We’ve been working so hard, and now here we are at the finish line,” he said. “There’s a sense of achievement and completion, but also this realization that we won’t be seeing each other as often. This franchise has been such a huge part of my life for so long, and saying goodbye isn’t easy.”
Klementieff echoed his sentiments, reflecting on the intense training and preparation that went into her role. Known for performing many of her own stunts, she revealed that she had spent “years” perfecting a specific axe kick featured in the film.
“We had an incredible stunt team, and we took the time to rehearse every move meticulously,” she said. “The fight choreography was so detailed—every high kick, every punch, every reaction had to be precise. It was exhausting but so rewarding.”
Her dedication to performing stunts earned her the nickname “Pom Cruise” on set—a playful nod to Tom Cruise’s legendary commitment to doing his own action sequences.
Tom Cruise’s Influence and the Franchise’s Legacy
Both actors spoke highly of Cruise, praising his relentless passion for filmmaking and his ability to inspire those around him.
“He’s so passionate about what he does—his energy is contagious,” Klementieff said. “Being on set with him pushes you to be better, to give everything you have. His fire and dedication elevate the entire production.”
Pegg, who has worked alongside Cruise across multiple films, agreed, noting how the actor’s fearlessness has shaped the franchise.
“Every time we finish a movie, we think, That’s it—how can we possibly top this?” Pegg said. “And yet, with this one, I genuinely don’t know how we could push things further. The stakes are higher than ever, the stunts are more insane, and the risks are unbelievable. It’s a fitting send-off.”
The Future of “Mission: Impossible”
While The Final Reckoning is being billed as the conclusion to the long-running series, Pegg hinted that the door may not be entirely closed.
“Never say never,” he said with a smile. “This feels like the end of an era, but who knows what the future holds? The beauty of Mission: Impossible is that it always finds a way to reinvent itself.”
Klementieff, meanwhile, expressed gratitude for the opportunity to be part of such an iconic franchise.
“It’s been an incredible ride,” she said. “I’ve learned so much, worked with the best in the business, and pushed myself beyond what I thought was possible. I’ll always cherish this experience.”
A Fitting Finale
As Mission: Impossible – The Final Reckoning prepares to hit theaters, fans can expect the same heart-pounding action, intricate plot twists, and breathtaking set pieces that have defined the series. For Pegg and Klementieff, it’s not just the end of a film—it’s the closing of a significant chapter in their careers.
“It’s been an honor,” Pegg said. “To the fans who have supported us all these years—thank you. This one’s for you.”
Klementieff added, “I hope audiences love it as much as we loved making it. It’s a wild, emotional, and action-packed finale.”
Mission: Impossible – The Final Reckoning arrives in theaters this Friday.