Tom Cruise gets emotional as he honours Top Gun co actor and late friend Val Kilmer

Tom Cruise honours Top Gun co actor and friend late Val Kilmer

Tom Cruise became visibly emotional as he paid tribute to his late friend and Top Gun co-star, Val Kilmer, during his speech at CinemaCon 2025 in Las Vegas.

Val, who passed away at the age of 65 from complications related to pneumonia, was remembered fondly by Tom, who expressed his deep admiration for the actor’s work and the lasting impact he had on the industry.

Speaking at the event, Tom said: “I’d like to honour a dear friend of mine, Val Kilmer. I can’t tell you how much I admire his work, how grateful and honoured I was when he joined Top Gun and came back later for Top Gun: Maverick."

Tom, 62, starred as Captain Pete ‘Maverick’ Mitchell in the 1986 blockbuster, with Kilmer portraying his rival-turned-ally, Tom ‘Iceman’ Kazansky. The two actors reunited onscreen in 2022’s Top Gun: Maverick, with Kilmer returning to reprise his iconic role despite battling severe health issues.

Val’s death, announced by his daughter on April 1, 2025, followed years of health struggles. Diagnosed with throat cancer in 2015, Val underwent extensive treatments, including chemotherapy, radiation, and a tracheotomy, which permanently altered his voice.

Despite these challenges, he made a triumphant return in Top Gun: Maverick, with artificial intelligence helping to recreate his voice for the film.

During his tribute at CinemaCon, Tom reflected on Val’s profound contribution to the film industry, saying: “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. I wish you well on the next journey.”

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In a 2022 interview on Jimmy Kimmel Live!, Tom had spoken about the emotional significance of working with Val again, saying: “I just want to say that was pretty emotional. 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.”

Val Kilmer, a celebrated actor from the 1980s and 90s, was known for iconic roles in films like Batman Forever and The Doors. His legacy lives on, and his return to Top Gun: Maverick remains a testament to his dedication and talent.