Tom Cruise Honors Val Kilmer with a Touching Tribute at CinemaCon
Sarah Johnson
April 4, 2025
Brief
Tom Cruise paid tribute to late 'Top Gun' co-star Val Kilmer at CinemaCon, honoring his legacy and friendship during a presentation for 'Mission: Impossible – The Final Reckoning.'
Tom Cruise took a moment to honor his late "Top Gun" co-star Val Kilmer at CinemaCon on Thursday during an event in Las Vegas, Nevada. Cruise was presenting new footage from his much-anticipated film, "Mission: Impossible – The Final Reckoning," but paused the excitement to pay tribute to his friend.
"I’d like to honor a dear friend of mine, Val Kilmer, for a moment," Cruise said, according to The Hollywood Reporter. "I can’t tell you how much I admired his work." He then asked the audience to join him in a moment of silence, adding, "If we just all take a moment to remember the wonderful time we had with him – let’s just take a moment. I wish you well on your next journey."
Kilmer, who passed away Tuesday in Los Angeles at the age of 65 due to pneumonia, had a storied career in Hollywood, starring in iconic films such as "Batman Forever" and "Tombstone." His death has prompted an outpouring of tributes from fans and celebrities alike, with many remembering him not just as an actor but as a deeply admired figure in the industry.
Cruise and Kilmer had reunited in 2022 for the "Top Gun" sequel, "Top Gun: Maverick," nearly three decades after the original movie's release. Reflecting on their time on set, Kilmer had shared with Entertainment Weekly, "It was like no time had passed at all. We blew a lot of takes laughing so much. It was really fun… special."
Despite health challenges stemming from a tracheostomy that left him reliant on a breathing tube, Kilmer's resilience and determination to return to the screen in "Maverick" spoke volumes about his passion for his craft. He had previously opened up about his struggles, telling People magazine in 2021, "I can't speak without plugging this hole [in his throat]. You have to make the choice to breathe or to eat."
Val Kilmer's legacy endures in his performances, his humility, and the indelible mark he left on those who worked with him. Cruise's heartfelt tribute at CinemaCon was a poignant reminder of the bond the two shared and the impact Kilmer had on the world.
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Editor's Comments
Tom Cruise’s tribute to Val Kilmer was not only touching but a rare glimpse into the deep respect and camaraderie shared by two Hollywood heavyweights. The call for a moment of silence in a room buzzing with anticipation for his own film shows real class. Also, Val Kilmer's humor even in tough times—blowing takes laughing? That’s the kind of spirit that leaves a mark. Hollywood could use more of that!
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