Author Morton talks about his controversial Cruise bio

NEW YORK — Andrew Morton, author of "Tom Cruise: An Unauthorized Biography," published by St. Martin's Press, claims that the 45-year-old actor ranks second in command in the Church of Scientology.

The book, which came out this week, also says that some Scientologists believe that Cruise's daughter, Suri, was conceived using frozen sperm from Scientology founder and science fiction writer L. Ron Hubbard.

In a statement to The Associated Press, Cruise's lawyer, Bertram Fields, said Wednesday that Morton's book is "absolutely loaded with false statements" and "Mr. Morton should be ashamed of himself for telling such vicious lies about a child to hype sales of his book."

The church has responded with a 15-page statement, calling the book "a bigoted, defamatory assault replete with lies" and saying Cruise "is a Scientology parishioner and holds no official or unofficial position in the church hierarchy."

The 54-year-old Morton, who has written books about Princess Diana, David and Victoria "Posh Spice" Beckham, Madonna and Monica Lewinsky talked about his book in an interview with the AP.

Some highlights:

AP: Why Cruise?

Morton: When I saw him jumping on Oprah's couch in 2005, I realized the mask had slipped. Here is this man who for years has been in control and controlling. He's been hiding behind the mask. I thought here is a window to get an insight into this man who has come from nowhere to become one of the dominating characters in the film world and elsewhere.

AP: There have been reports that you were threatened by Scientologists while making this book.

Morton: In fairness to them (Scientologist), they haven't harassed me. They have sent threatening legal messages, as they are entitled to do.

AP: Cruise's lawyer, Bertram Fields, says this book is "packed with lies." What is your response?

Morton: I've got a reputation as a very careful biographer. ... I have spent over two years carefully researching this book. ... I think I presented a very fair and balanced portrait of an intriguing and fascinating character.

AP: How do you view Cruise?

Morton: I see him as a man who is linked to his faith of Scientology, someone who has transcended his role as a film star to become a Hollywood powerhouse and also someone who walks the corridors of power, meets presidents and prime ministers.