Tom Cruise maintains silence on ‘Top Gun’ co-star Val Kilmer’s death

Tom Cruise might still be in shock to process or possibly busy with Mission Impossible promotions as he has yet to comment on the passing of his beloved Top Gun co-star Val Kilmer.

Kilmer, known for his iconic roles as Jim Morrison from The Doors, Batman from Batman Forever and Iceman from the 1986 classic, passed away on Tuesday, April 1, at the age of 65 due to pneumonia.

After his daughter Mercedes Kilmer confirmed his passing, Filmmaker Micheael Mann, who directed Kilmer in Heat, led the tributes.

Several Hollywood celebrities shared heartfelt messages in remembrance of the actor, but one voice remained notably absent — that of his close friend, Cruise, 62.

Kilmer, who gained fame as Iceman, played a naval aviator Lt. Tom "Iceman" Kazanski alongside Cruise’s Pete "Maverick" Mitchell.

The duo had an emotional reunion in the film’s 2023 sequel, Top Gun: Maverick.

As news of Kilmer’s death spread, an old interview of Cruise resurfaced.

In a 2023 conversation with Jimmy Kimmel, Cruise recalled working with his longtime friend again in the 2023 sequel, saying, "I just want to say that was pretty emotional."

"I've known Val for decades, and for him to come back and play that character… he's such a powerful actor that he instantly became that character again," he added.

The original film showcased an intense rivalry between Maverick and Iceman, competing for Top Gun graduation and recognition.

However, as they train and face challenges, their competition softens, evolving their bond into respect and even friendship, with Iceman eventually becoming Maverick's wingman.

Cruise has yet to publicly share his thoughts on the loss of his close friend, leaving fans and industry colleagues waiting for a response from the star.

Notably, Kilmer’s ex Cher, Bad Lieutenant co-star Nicolas Cage and several other celebrities have reacted to his death with their emotional tributes.