AceShowbiz - Earlier this week, Hollywood lost one of its iconic figures, Val Kilmer. The actor, known for his roles in "Top Gun" and "Batman Forever", passed away at the age of 65 due to pneumonia. His "Top Gun" co-star, Tom Cruise, shared profound words about his late friend during CinemaCon in Las Vegas.

"I'd like to honor a dear friend of mine, Val Kilmer," he began. "I can't tell you how much I admire his work, how grateful and honored I was when he joined ‘Top Gun' and came back later for "Top Gun: Maverick,' " he added, reflecting on their collaborations in the iconic 1986 movie and its 2022 sequel.

The audience was invited to join Cruise in a moment of silence to remember the "wonderful times" shared with Kilmer. "I wish you well on the next journey," he concluded.

Kilmer, who played Tom "Iceman" Kazansky, had a storied career that was halted due to a battle with throat cancer diagnosed in 2015. Despite his health challenges, Kilmer returned in 2022 for "Top Gun: Maverick," where he communicated through AI technology.

The sequel was an emotional reunion for Cruise, who said on "Jimmy Kimmel Live!", "He's such a powerful actor that he instantly became that character again." Recalling filming scenes with Kilmer, Cruise added, "I was crying, I was crying. I got emotional. He's such a brilliant actor, I love his work."

Val Kilmer's career is marked by a series of unforgettable performances across various genres. From his portrayal of Jim Morrison in "The Doors" to his witty Doc Holliday in "Tombstone," Kilmer left an indelible mark in Hollywood.

In his memoir, "I'm Your Huckleberry," Kilmer recounted how he initially didn't want the "Top Gun" role but eventually loved the camaraderie and enthusiasm of the cast and crew, particularly that of Tony Scott and Tom Cruise.

Cruise wasn't the only one to honor Kilmer's legacy; tributes poured in from numerous costars and fans who admired his craft and contributions to cinema. Josh Brolin, Josh Gad, Cher, Jim Carrey, Nicolas Cage, and Michael Douglas have also remembered the late star.

As we mourn the loss of Val Kilmer, we also celebrate a career that touched countless lives and an actor who will always be remembered for his incredible spirit and performances. Val Kilmer may have departed, but his legacy and the memories he created on and off-screen will endure.