For fans of cinematic history, few reunions carry as much emotional weight as the on-screen pairing of Tom Cruise and the late Val Kilmer in Top Gun: Maverick. In the 2022 blockbuster, audiences witnessed the powerful return of two iconic characters — Maverick and Iceman — sharing the screen after decades. Off-screen, Cruise recalls the experience as equally unforgettable, deeply emotional, and ultimately joyous.
Speaking in a recent Sight and Sound retrospective, Cruise reflected on the profound impact of working with Kilmer one final time. He described the reunion as “amazing” and “joyous,” emphasizing the natural chemistry and bond that transcended time.
“It was like time had not passed,” Cruise shared. “We were laughing… it was joyous. And then we started acting — and you could just see it. He became Iceman again.”
Kilmer, who reprised his role as Tom “Iceman” Kazansky in a heartfelt cameo, sadly passed away in April at age 65 following complications from pneumonia. Top Gun: Maverick ultimately became his final film, immortalizing his iconic portrayal for a new generation of fans.
Despite Kilmer’s vocal limitations from a prior battle with throat cancer, Cruise insisted that the actor’s performance was deeply compelling.
“The power that this guy has, even without speaking, to become that character — he was Iceman,” Cruise explained. “You saw the connection, the friendship, the history between them. It was very special for me. He didn’t even have to speak. That’s the kind of gift he had, and he shared it with all of us.”
Cruise’s words offer a glimpse into the respect and admiration shared between the two actors. For Cruise, the collaboration was not merely about filming scenes; it was about honouring decades of shared cinematic history and a friendship forged on the original Top Gun set.
Revisiting a Legendary Partnership
The two actors first appeared together in the 1986 original Top Gun, where their dynamic as Maverick and Iceman captured audiences worldwide. Kilmer’s Iceman was the calm, composed foil to Cruise’s reckless and daring Maverick — a contrast that became the backbone of the film’s tension and charm.
Yet, as Cruise explained, bringing Kilmer back for Maverick was not straightforward. The late director Tony Scott had to personally persuade Kilmer to reprise his role, as the actor was initially hesitant about returning in a supporting capacity.
“He had to play Iceman in a way where the audience wanted them to be friends in the end,” Cruise recalled. “I remember those scenes like they were yesterday — especially the one where he does the bite thing. You know when someone’s just on fire during a scene? It’s exhilarating. He was only in the original Top Gun for maybe ten minutes, but that’s the kind of impact an artist like Val had.”
Kilmer’s influence on the franchise was profound despite his limited screen time. Cruise emphasized that Kilmer brought depth, authenticity, and a natural charisma to Iceman, qualities that ensured the character remained iconic decades later.
Emotional Resonance on Set
Cruise’s reflections highlight the emotional resonance of Kilmer’s return. The actors’ reunion went beyond mere nostalgia — it was about rekindling a shared creative spirit and celebrating a lifelong contribution to film. For Cruise, the experience was not only professionally fulfilling but personally moving.
“Working with Val again was one of the most joyous experiences of my career,” Cruise said. “It reminded me why we do this. It reminded me of the magic, the friendship, the trust we build on set. He brought that, even in his last performance, and it elevated everyone around him.”
The camaraderie on set between Cruise and Kilmer was evident in both formal scenes and behind-the-scenes interactions. Cruise recounted moments of laughter, shared memories, and the effortless way Kilmer slipped back into the role of Iceman, proving that true artistry transcends time and health challenges.
Kilmer’s Legacy in Hollywood
Val Kilmer’s career spanned decades and included a wide array of iconic roles. From his brooding performance as Bruce Wayne in Batman Forever to his riveting portrayal of Jim Morrison in The Doors, Kilmer was known for fully immersing himself in his characters. Top Gun: Maverick stands as both a tribute to his enduring talent and a poignant bookend to a remarkable career.
Cruise noted that Kilmer’s ability to communicate emotions without dialogue was a testament to his skill and experience.
“Val didn’t need to speak to command a scene,” Cruise said. “His presence was enough. That’s rare. That’s extraordinary. He could make you feel the character’s history, their pain, their joy, without saying a word. That’s what made him so special.”
The actor’s legacy continues to influence fans and actors alike, with Top Gun: Maverick serving as a lasting testament to his craft. For Cruise, the reunion was an opportunity to honor Kilmer’s remarkable contributions and celebrate the moments that made their original collaboration unforgettable.
Reflections for Fans and Filmmakers
For audiences revisiting Kilmer’s greatest hits, his final appearance in Top Gun: Maverick resonates deeply. It is a reminder of the actor’s dedication, the nuances he brought to every role, and the lasting friendships forged in Hollywood’s high-pressure environment.
Cruise’s reflections also shed light on the challenges and rewards of working with a legendary colleague facing health challenges, highlighting the compassion, patience, and mutual respect required in such collaborations.
“We all felt the weight of the moment, and Val delivered beyond expectations,” Cruise said. “It was joyous, it was emotional, and it was inspiring. I’m grateful to have shared that experience with him.”
As fans continue to revisit both Top Gun films and Kilmer’s broader body of work, Maverick remains a poignant celebration of a cinematic partnership, a testament to lasting talent, and a reminder of the joy that acting can bring both on and off the screen.
Conclusion
Tom Cruise’s reflections on working with Val Kilmer for Top Gun: Maverick capture more than professional admiration—they convey the human connection, creative synergy, and lasting impact of one of Hollywood’s most enduring collaborations. Kilmer’s final performance immortalizes Iceman, offering audiences a moving tribute and cementing his legacy as one of the great actors of his generation.
In Cruise’s words, it was not merely a reunion; it was a celebration of artistry, friendship, and the timeless magic of storytelling.
