Is Tom Cruise making a return visit to Oprah's couch?

OPRAH WINFREY is coming to TOM CRUISE's defense! Cruise has taken a bruisin' by his critics ever since he famously jumped on her couch while proclaiming his love for KATIE HOLMES.

"I think Tom got a bad rap in the media," she said last night while at the dedication of the new HEARST Tower in New York.

And now rumor has it that the 'Mission: Impossible' star is looking to return to Lady O's daytime talker.

"If that's the rumor, I would love to have Tom back," she said. "But if he's coming back, I don't know it."

And Oprah's best gal pal GAYLE seconds that emotion! "I'd be interested in seeing a conversation between the two of them," she said. "I think Tom Cruise is welcome wherever he wants to go."

Does SANDRA BULLOCK have baby fever? Looking très chic in an asymmetrical, one-shouldered GALLIANO gown with pockets, the actress stepped out Monday night for the premiere of her new movie 'Infamous,' about the life of TRUMAN CAPOTE.

Strolling down the red carpet with her hubby JESSE JAMES, Sandra told ET when and if she's planning to add to their family.

"I've got the best family right now," she said. "I couldn't want any more if I tried. It's all good!"

The legendary CLINT EASTWOOD was also out in Los Angeles Monday night for the premiere of his buzzworthy drama 'Flags of Our Fathers,' in which his real-life son plays a soldier; the film opens October 20.

"How would you describe your father as a director?" our LEONARD MALTIN asks Clint's son, SCOTT.

"Ahh, no, no, no," he says, choosing to take the fifth on the touchy question.

But Clint reveals what he wishes for his son. "Good roles -- he can work his way up the ladder," he said. "It only took me 54 years!"

And the JOLIE-PITTS are at it again! According to People magazine, the charitable couple has made a $100,000 donation to the DANIEL PEARL Foundation, the organization honoring the American journalist who was kidnapped and killed in Pakistan in 2002.

The famous pair are currently at work in India for the filming of 'A Mighty Heart,' the drama based on the book written by the slain reporter's wife.