Tom Cruise Honors “Dear Friend” & Late Top Gun Costar Val Kilmer

And after a moment of silence, the Jerry Maguire star gushed about Val’s knack for storytelling, comparing him to legendary producer Irving Thalberg, who was a pioneer in the early years of motion pictures.

“This man forged through it all and was able to create epic adventures for global audiences,” Tom noted. “You are an artist for all time. You are our modern-day Thalberg.”

After all, it was just two years before Val’s tragic passing that he joined Tom in what would be his final acting project, 2023’s Top Gun: Maverick. And while they were filming, Val expressed nothing but admiration for his costar.

"Tom commands a lot of respect and it was a joy to be in such a comfortable setting," the Kiss Kiss Bang Bangstar told Collider in 2022. "We are paid to act and that’s what we did in the scene, but doing so with a class act like Tom made it a pleasure, and less like work!"

But Tom wasn’t the only one that admired Val’s talents and character throughout his expansive career. Indeed, stars like Josh Brolin, Josh Gad and Heat director Michael Mann also took a moment to remember the impact Val left on their lives and mourn his passing.

“See ya, pal,” Josh wrote on Instagram the day of Val’s passing, alongside a photo of the two smiling. “I'm going to miss you. You were a smart, challenging, brave, uber-creative firecracker. There's not a lot left of those.”

“I hope to see you up there in the heavens when I eventually get there,” the Marvel actor continued. “Until then, amazing memories, lovely thoughts.”

For a look at Val’s life in photos, keep reading.