During this year’s CinemaCon in Las Vegas, while promoting the eagerly awaited Mission: Impossible – The Final Reckoning, Tom Cruise took a poignant moment to pay tribute to someone who held significant importance in his life — his late Top Gun co-star and close friend, Val Kilmer.

The atmosphere was both powerful and solemn. On stage, Cruise momentarily shifted the focus from the excitement of blockbuster discussions to honor a man whose legacy has profoundly influenced Hollywood and whose personal impact was deeply felt.

“I cannot express how much I admire his work and how grateful I was when he joined ‘Top Gun’ and later returned for ‘Top Gun: Maverick,’” Cruise shared with the audience. He then invited everyone to observe a moment of silence in remembrance of a life filled with passion, artistry, and an unforgettable presence.

“He cherished films and contributed immensely to all of us. Just reflect on the wonderful moments we shared with him,” Cruise continued, visibly emotional.