Tom Cruise Honors Val Kilmer's Legacy at CinemaCon

Tom Cruise, visibly emotional, led a moment of silence for his friend Val Kilmer at CinemaCon after the actor's passing at 65, reflecting on their bond and Kilmer's extraordinary talent.

Tom Cruise recently paid a touching tribute to his late co-star Val Kilmer during the Paramount Pictures presentation at CinemaCon in Las Vegas. Kilmer, who passed away at the age of 65 earlier this week, was honored in front of a packed audience, where Cruise led a moment of silence to remember the man who portrayed his formidable rival Ice Man in the 1986 classic Top Gun.

"Val Kilmer was not only a tremendous actor, but a true friend," Cruise expressed to the audience, while remembering how grateful and honored he felt to have Kilmer join him in Top Gun. Kilmer’s last film role was in the sequel, Top Gun: Maverick, and his range spanned memorable characters including Batman and Jim Morrison in The Doors.

Amidst the somber atmosphere, Cruise took a moment to bow his head in respect before saying, “Thank you, Val – wish you well on your next journey.” After his tribute, Cruise showcased the trailer for his upcoming film, Mission: Impossible - The Final Reckoning, further celebrating the work and creativity of his fellow filmmakers.

Cruise has previously spoken about the emotional experience of working with Kilmer, revealing on Jimmy Kimmel Live! that he found himself in tears to have Kilmer back on set for Top Gun: Maverick. "He's such a brilliant actor. I love his work," Cruise shared, highlighting their friendship and Kilmer's indelible mark on cinema.

According to Kilmer’s family, the actor succumbed to pneumonia following a battle with throat cancer that required him to undergo two tracheotomies, changing the way he communicated. In a poignant scene from Maverick, Kilmer’s Iceman tells Cruise’s character, Maverick, “The Navy needs Maverick,” capturing the spirit of their enduring camaraderie in the film. As the entertainment industry mourns the loss of a talented actor, Cruise's tribute reflects the deep respect and admiration they all had for Kilmer's remarkable contributions to film.