Tom Cruise paid a heartfelt tribute to his late “Top Gun” co-star Val Kilmer during his appearance at CinemaCon, the annual movie theater convention currently underway in Las Vegas. Kilmer, 65, passed away on Tuesday, and Cruise took a moment to honor his dear friend and colleague before discussing his upcoming projects.
Cruise, who was at CinemaCon to promote Mission: Impossible – The Final Reckoning, opened his presentation by addressing the crowd of movie theater owners and exhibitors with a somber acknowledgment of Kilmer’s passing. As he prepared to discuss his iconic stunts as Ethan Hunt in the Mission: Impossible series, Cruise asked the audience for a moment of silence.
“I’d like to honor a dear friend of mine, Val Kilmer,” Cruise said from the stage at Caesars Palace. “I can’t tell you how much I admire his work, how grateful and honored I was when he joined Top Gun and came back later for Top Gun: Maverick. I think it would be really nice if we could have a moment together because he loved movies and he gave a lot to all of us. Just kind of think about all the wonderful times that we had with him.”
Cruise then concluded the emotional tribute by adding, “I wish you well on the next journey,” before proceeding with his presentation.
A Friendship That Spanned Decades
Cruise and Kilmer’s friendship began on the set of the 1986 blockbuster Top Gun, where they played rival fighter pilots Maverick and Iceman, respectively. The two characters started as bitter rivals at the U.S. Navy’s Fighter Weapons School but ultimately developed a deep camaraderie that formed the emotional backbone of the film. Top Gun became an immediate cultural phenomenon, grossing $350 million worldwide and making both Cruise and Kilmer international stars.
The success of Top Gun catapulted both actors into the stratosphere of Hollywood fame, but it was the bond they forged on set that would endure throughout the years. Nearly four decades after their first collaboration, the two actors reunited for Top Gun: Maverick in 2022. The film saw Kilmer reprise his role as Iceman in a powerful and emotional sequence that would end up being his final appearance on screen.
Kilmer, who had been diagnosed with throat cancer in 2015, had lost much of his ability to speak as a result of his treatment. However, technology was used to recreate his voice for the sequel, making it possible for him to deliver his lines as Iceman. In a poignant scene in Top Gun: Maverick, Cruise’s Maverick seeks counsel from Iceman, who is battling a terminal illness.
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“Iceman” communicates via a computer, typing out his thoughts which are then spoken aloud by the technology: “The Navy needs Maverick. The kid needs Maverick. That’s why I fought for you. That’s why you’re still here.” This emotional exchange between the two characters was one of the most memorable moments of the sequel, showcasing the bond between Maverick and Iceman and the profound respect they had for one another.
The Impact of “Top Gun: Maverick”
After Top Gun: Maverick was released in 2022, it quickly became a massive hit, grossing over $1.4 billion worldwide, making it one of the highest-grossing films of all time. The film was also nominated for six Academy Awards, further cementing its place in cinematic history. Cruise’s emotional portrayal of Maverick, combined with Kilmer’s touching return as Iceman, contributed to the film’s success.
In interviews following the release of Top Gun: Maverick, Cruise reflected on the emotional experience of working with Kilmer on the film. Speaking about the difficulty of filming their emotional scenes together, Cruise shared his admiration for his co-star’s ability to slip back into his iconic role.
“I just want to say that was pretty emotional,” Cruise said on Jimmy Kimmel Live! shortly after the film’s release. “I’ve known Val for decades. For him to come back and play that character… he’s such a powerful actor that he instantly became that character again. You’re looking at Iceman.”
The film’s success and Kilmer’s performance were a testament to the enduring power of their on-screen relationship, and it provided fans with a poignant final farewell to one of Hollywood’s most iconic characters.
Kilmer’s Legacy and Final Farewell
Val Kilmer’s death marks the end of an era for both his fans and his colleagues. The actor’s career spanned decades, with memorable roles in films like Batman Forever, The Doors, and Heat. However, it was his portrayal of Iceman in Top Gun that left an indelible mark on pop culture. Kilmer’s portrayal of the cool and confident fighter pilot became one of the most beloved characters in cinematic history, and his return to the role in Top Gun: Maverick was a moment of immense significance for both fans and those who had worked with him over the years.
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Cruise’s tribute to Kilmer at CinemaCon serves as a reminder of the deep bond the two shared, both personally and professionally. The emotional moment captured the respect and admiration that the Hollywood community had for Kilmer and the lasting impact he had on the industry.
Kilmer’s legacy as an actor, his courageous battle with illness, and his unforgettable performance as Iceman will continue to inspire generations of filmmakers and fans alike. His contributions to the world of cinema will not soon be forgotten, and his final appearance in Top Gun: Maverick will remain a touching tribute to his life and work.
As fans and colleagues mourn his passing, Cruise’s words at CinemaCon reflect the sentiment of many: Val Kilmer was a beloved actor and a cherished friend, and his presence in the world of cinema will be missed.
