Tom Cruise paid heartfelt tribute to his longtime friend and co-star Val Kilmer during a touching moment at CinemaCon on April 3, 2025, just days after Kilmer's death from pneumonia at the age of 65. Cruise, who starred alongside Kilmer in the iconic 1986 film Top Gun, expressed his admiration for Kilmer's talent and their enduring friendship.
As the crowd gathered in Las Vegas, Cruise took a moment to honor Kilmer's legacy, saying, "I’d like to take a moment before we get started today to honor a dear friend of mine, Val Kilmer." He continued, "I can’t tell you how much I admired his work and him as a human being, how grateful and honored I was that he joined Top Gun and came back for Top Gun: Maverick." This emotional acknowledgment was met with a moment of silence from the audience, a testament to Kilmer's impact on the film industry and those who knew him.
In a previous appearance on Jimmy Kimmel Live! in February 2023, Cruise shared how moving it was to reunite with Kilmer on-screen after nearly four decades. “That was pretty emotional,” he recalled, adding, “I was crying. I got emotional.” Their reunion in Top Gun: Maverick was particularly poignant, as it marked Kilmer's last film role, where his character, Iceman, had to communicate through a text screen due to his health challenges.
Val Kilmer's family released a statement following his death, expressing pride in his legacy and gratitude for the tributes. "Thank you for honoring our extraordinary father’s memory," they said. "We are so proud of him and honored to see his legacy celebrated." They requested privacy as they grieve, but acknowledged the support from fans and friends.
Kilmer's career spanned several decades, beginning with his film debut in the 1984 comedy Top Secret!. He quickly rose to fame with his unforgettable portrayal of Jim Morrison in Oliver Stone's The Doors (1991) and went on to star in numerous films, including Tombstone and Batman Forever. His role as Tom "Iceman" Kazansky in Top Gun solidified his status as a Hollywood star, and he reprised this role in the 2022 sequel, which was met with critical acclaim.
Director Joseph Kosinski, who worked with both Cruise and Kilmer, remarked on their long friendship, noting how they both started their careers with the original Top Gun. He described the reunion as a special moment filled with joy, reflecting on the bond that had developed between the two actors over the years.
During his tribute, Cruise emphasized the emotional weight of their scenes together in Top Gun: Maverick. Kilmer, who had battled throat cancer since 2014, faced significant health challenges, including undergoing two tracheotomies which affected his ability to speak. In the film, Kilmer's character communicates with Cruise's Maverick through typed messages, adding a layer of authenticity to their interactions.
“I was very moved the first time I saw it,” Kilmer had said about Maverick. “Almost 40 years is a long time for a reunion. We laughed all day. Tom is great and surprisingly funny!” His enthusiasm for returning to the role he had made famous was evident, and he expressed eagerness upon learning about the sequel, stating, “I called the agent immediately. Yes, Top Gun has all the perfect elements for a sequel.”
In his final moments on screen, Kilmer's Iceman delivers a powerful line, telling Maverick that “The Navy needs Maverick,” before they share an emotional embrace. This scene resonated deeply with both the characters and the audience, as it reflected their genuine friendship.
As Hollywood continues to mourn Kilmer's passing, many have shared their memories and tributes, celebrating his contributions to film and the arts. His unique talent and unpredictable performances left an indelible mark on cinema, and his legacy will undoubtedly continue to inspire future generations of actors.
Val Kilmer is survived by his two children, Mercedes and Jack, who carry on his legacy. The outpouring of love and respect from fans and colleagues alike highlights the profound impact he had on those around him. Kilmer's family and friends remember him not just as a talented actor, but as a kind-hearted individual who touched many lives.
As the film industry reflects on Kilmer's remarkable career, his roles will forever be cherished, and his spirit will continue to live on in the hearts of his fans. Tom Cruise's tribute at CinemaCon serves as a reminder of the strong bonds formed through shared experiences in the world of filmmaking, and the lasting friendships that endure beyond the silver screen.
