Tom Cruise's praise of Kate Middleton highlights her 'untouched by scandal' reputation: expert

Tom Cruise's recent effusive praise for Kate Middleton was not just Hollywood flattery, according to royal experts.The Prince and Princess of Wales, both 44, joined Cruise at the world premiere of the 64-year-old actor's new movie "Digger" in London on Sept.22.

During an interview with "Extra" at the film's Los Angeles premiere on Monday, Cruise raved over the royal couple and shared a particularly glowing assessment of Middleton."It was just so fun sitting there watching them watch it and for them to be part of it," Cruise said, via People magazine."I have so much respect for them, you know, they’re amazing people and how dedicated they are to their country and also…what they give to the world.They’re just beautiful people and fun, very funny."KATE MIDDLETON’S CAREFULLY PLANNED PATH TO THE THRONE REVEALED AS EXPERT SAYS SHE ‘PLAYED THE LONG GAME’"She’s got a great sense, incredible sense of humor," Cruise said of Middleton.

"I mean, obviously very intelligent and fun."Tom Cruise recently gushed over Kate Middleton after she and Prince William attended the London premiere of the actor's movie "Digger." (Getty Images for Warner Bros.)"They’re so charismatic and so elegant," he gushed."That dress that she was wearing? Stunning."PRINCE WILLIAM, KATE MIDDLETON FINALLY FEEL FREE TO SHOW AFFECTION IN PUBLIC: EXPERTS"William did well," Cruise added with a smile.

"Way to go, smart choice.Yeah, I gotta give it to William.

Way to go.Smart choice."Cruise's comments quickly made headlines, with royal experts arguing they reflected Middleton's unique standing within the monarchy rather than simply offering another celebrity compliment.KATE MIDDLETON HAILED AS THE MONARCHY'S 'SAVING GRACE' AFTER CANCER BATTLE TRANSFORMED HER ROYAL ROLE: EXPERTSCruise said that William and Kate are "so charismatic and so elegant."  (Getty Images for Warner Bros.)While speaking to Fox News Digital, royal expert Christopher Andersen said that the Hollywood icon's admiration und...