Kilmer, best known for his role as Tom “Iceman” Kazansky in the 1986 classic Top Gun, reunited with Cruise’s Pete “Maverick” Mitchell in the 2022 sequel, Top Gun: Maverick. Their on-screen chemistry was a defining aspect of both films, making Kilmer’s passing a profound loss for the Hollywood community.
“I’d like to honor a dear friend of mine, Val Kilmer,” Cruise said during his address. “I can’t tell you how much I admire his work, how grateful and honored I was when he joined Top Gun and later returned for Top Gun: Maverick.”
The heartfelt tribute continued as Cruise encouraged the audience to reflect on Kilmer’s contributions to cinema. “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 think about all the wonderful times that we had with him,” he said.
Concluding his tribute, Cruise added, “I wish you well on the next journey.”
Kilmer, whose career spanned decades with standout performances in films such as Batman Forever, The Doors, and Heat, was widely regarded as one of Hollywood’s most talented and versatile actors. His portrayal of Iceman in Top Gun remains one of his most iconic roles, making his reunion with Cruise in the sequel especially poignant.
His passing marks the end of an era for fans of the Top Gun franchise and the film industry as a whole.