Val Kilmer’s Hilarious Prank on Tom Cruise During *Top Gun* Filming

Val Kilmer, the beloved actor whose versatility defined his career, has tragically passed away at the age of 61. The news was confirmed by his daughter, Mercedes Kilmer, to The New York Times, revealing that the cause of death was pneumonia. Kilmer’s death on Tuesday, April 1st, marks the end of a remarkable journey in Hollywood, where he left an indelible mark on cinema.

Kilmer’s breakout role came in 1986 when he portrayed Lt. Tom “Iceman” Kazansky in Top Gun, standing alongside Tom Cruise. His portrayal of the cool-headed, competitive pilot turned him into a household name. Over the years, Kilmer starred in a variety of iconic roles, including Doc Holliday in Tombstone, Jim Morrison in The Doors, Elvis Presley in True Romance, and Bruce Wayne in Batman Forever. His last film appearance came full circle in 2022, when he reprised his role as Iceman in the Top Gun sequel, Top Gun: Maverick, marking a poignant return to the franchise that made him famous.

Kilmer is survived by his daughter, Mercedes, and son, Jack.

Kilmer and Cruise: A Rivalry That Became Friendship

Val Kilmer’s relationship with Tom Cruise on the set of Top Gun was famously marked by a competitive dynamic that mirrored their characters in the film. In his 2020 memoir, I’m Your Huckleberry, Kilmer opened up about the behind-the-scenes tension and camaraderie that evolved between the two stars.

Top Gun, which debuted in 1986, quickly became a cultural phenomenon, winning numerous accolades including an Oscar, a Grammy, and a People’s Choice Award. The film followed the lives of elite Navy pilots at a fighter weapons school, where Kilmer and Cruise’s characters developed a rivalry as they vied for the top spot in their class.

Kilmer admitted that their on-screen rivalry extended off-set, with the actors often dividing into separate social circles. While Kilmer and his group were known for their wild party antics, Cruise, in contrast, was intensely focused on his career. Kilmer recalled, “Tom refrained from our revelry, with good reason. From day one, he was laser-focused on a singular goal: to become the greatest action hero in the history of film. He was up nights learning lines; he spent every waking hour perfecting his stunts. His dedication was admirable.”

A Memorable Prank to Break the Ice

In an attempt to bridge the gap between them, Kilmer decided to play a prank on Cruise. In his memoir, he recounted how he gifted Cruise an expensive bottle of champagne, but with a twist. He placed it in the middle of a vast field and set up a scavenger hunt with clues to lead Cruise to the bottle.

Kilmer recalled the moment with a mix of humor and nostalgia, saying, “I hid behind a bleacher and watched him lug the giant crate to his motorcycle. He never did thank me for the Iceman-style bit. I thought it would break the ice, but I guess the ice was just right.” Though Cruise never acknowledged the prank, Kilmer looked back on it fondly as a lighthearted attempt to connect with his co-star.

Despite the playful tension between them, Kilmer and Cruise ultimately became friends. Their bond was rekindled years later when they reunited for Top Gun: Maverick. Cruise described their reunion as “emotional,” reflecting the deep respect and affection that had developed between the two over the years.

A Legacy Remembered

Val Kilmer’s passing marks the end of an era, but his legacy will live on through his unforgettable roles and the impact he made on both Hollywood and fans worldwide. From the rebellious Iceman to his many other iconic portrayals, Kilmer’s work continues to inspire audiences and actors alike.

As we remember Kilmer, we also celebrate the incredible dynamic he shared with Tom Cruise—both on and off-screen. Their journey, from rivals to friends, remains one of the most memorable relationships in Hollywood history.

Relive the iconic moments between Tom Cruise and Val Kilmer in Top Gun below and honor the memory of a true cinematic legend.