in 2000, stiller starred in three more films, including one of his most recognizable roles, a male nurse named gaylord "greg" focker in meet the parents, opposite robert de niro. the film was well received by critics, grossed over $330 million worldwide, and spawned two sequels. also in 2000, mtv again invited stiller to make another short film, and he developed mission: improbable, a spoof of tom cruise's role in mission: impossible ii and other films.