Tom Cruise Leads Emotional Tribute to Val Kilmer at CinemaCon
Tom Cruise paid a heartfelt tribute to his late Top Gun co-star Val Kilmer during a special appearance at CinemaCon 2025 in Las Vegas. Kilmer, who famously played “Iceman” opposite Cruise’s “Maverick” in the original Top Gun (1986), died earlier this week in Los Angeles at the age of 65.
Cruise, speaking during the Paramount Pictures presentation, asked the crowd at The Colosseum theatre to join him in a moment of silence. The audience, filled with cinema owners and film industry professionals, stood united in remembering Kilmer.
“Grateful and Honoured”: Tom Cruise’s Tribute to Val Kilmer
“I can’t tell you how much I admired his work,” Cruise said, holding back emotion. “I was honoured when he joined Top Gun. I’m grateful for every moment we shared.”
Val Kilmer’s final movie role was in the 2022 blockbuster Top Gun: Maverick, where he reprised his role as Iceman despite his battle with throat cancer. The powerful scene between Cruise and Kilmer moved many fans — and Cruise himself.
Val Kilmer’s Legacy Lives On
Val Kilmer’s impact on Hollywood was undeniable. Known for a wide range of roles — including Batman in Batman Forever and Jim Morrison in The Doors — Kilmer was praised for his intensity, versatility, and artistic courage.
Despite health struggles following a diagnosis of throat cancer, Kilmer returned to the screen. He communicated in Top Gun: Maverick by typing on a screen, and used a voice box in real life. In their emotional scene, Iceman tells Maverick, “The Navy needs you,” before breaking into a heartfelt embrace.
Tom Cruise Recalls Emotional Moment on Set
Earlier, on Jimmy Kimmel Live!, Cruise shared how deeply he was affected filming that scene with Kilmer.
“I was crying. I got emotional. He’s such a brilliant actor. I love his work,” Cruise said.
Mission: Impossible Sneak Peek and Director Honor
Aside from the tribute, Cruise also thrilled fans with a sneak peek at Mission: Impossible – The Final Reckoning. The high-octane trailer featured Cruise performing his own stunts, including wing-walking on a vintage aircraft.
The film, directed by Christopher McQuarrie, is expected to release later this year. McQuarrie was also recognized as CinemaCon’s Director of the Year.
Val Kilmer’s Cause of Death
Kilmer’s family confirmed he died from complications related to pneumonia. He had undergone two tracheotomies during cancer treatment, which permanently changed his voice.
Hollywood Pays Tribute to Val Kilmer
As news of Val Kilmer’s death spread, celebrities and fans around the world expressed their grief and admiration.
Some highlights of Kilmer’s career include:
- Top Gun (1986)
- The Doors (1991)
- Tombstone (1993)
- Batman Forever (1995)
- Heat (1995)
- Top Gun: Maverick (2022)
Final Goodbye from Tom Cruise
As he bowed his head in silence, Cruise ended his tribute with a message full of emotion and respect:
“Thank you, Val — wish you well on your next journey.”
Conclusion: A Legacy That Soars
The world has lost a talented actor, but Val Kilmer’s legacy will continue to inspire generations. Through the touching tribute by Tom Cruise, fans are reminded of the deep friendship and respect shared between the two stars.
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