During a heartfelt moment at CinemaCon in Las Vegas, Tom Cruise paid tribute to his friend and “Top Gun” co-star, Val Kilmer, who passed away at 65.
Attending the event to promote “Mission: Impossible – The Final Reckoning,” Cruise paused to invite the audience into a reflective moment dedicated to Kilmer’s memory.
“I’d like to take a moment to honor my dear friend Val Kilmer,” Cruise said at Caesars Palace. “Val was an incredible talent, and working with him on ‘Top Gun’ and again on ‘Top Gun: Maverick’ was truly an honor. Let’s remember the joy and passion he brought to every role and to our lives.”
Closing the tribute, Cruise added, “I wish you well on your next journey.”
Cruise and Kilmer first co-starred in the original 1986 “Top Gun,” portraying fighter pilots Maverick and Iceman, whose rivalry turned into friendship. The film’s success significantly boosted both actors’ careers, earning $350 million globally.
The pair reunited nearly four decades later for 2022’s “Top Gun: Maverick,” marking Kilmer’s poignant final screen appearance. Diagnosed with throat cancer in 2015, Kilmer’s voice was digitally recreated for an emotional scene, highlighting themes of legacy and sacrifice.
The sequel soared to massive box-office success, earning over $1.4 billion worldwide and securing six Oscar nominations. A third “Top Gun” installment is currently underway.
Reflecting previously on their emotional reunion on set, Cruise remarked, “Seeing Val bring Iceman back to life was incredibly powerful and moving. He embodied the character perfectly.”