Tom Cruise devastated by the loss of Val Kilmer: "He can't take in the idea that he's gone"

The death of Val Kilmer has left a deep void in Hollywood, but for Tom Cruise the blow has been especially painful. According to people close to the actor, Cruise is "devastated" by the loss of his former co-star in the iconic Top Gun saga, and friend of many years.

"He just can't grasp the idea that Val is gone," a source close to the actor told In Touch. The relationship between the two went beyond the professional. Although on screen their characters -Maverick and Iceman- maintained an intense rivalry, off set they built a connection of mutual respect and iration that remained strong over time.

The news has been a blow to Cruise, who considers Kilmer a fundamental part of his career and his life. "Val will always be Iceman to him," the source said. His participation in Top Gun: Maverick was an especially emotional moment for both actors. Despite the health problems that Kilmer had been facing for years, he made a remarkable effort to return to the role that immortalised him, something that Cruise deeply appreciated.

The symbolic farewell between Tom Cruise and Val Kilmer

The scene they shared in the sequel was one of the most talked about and emotional moments of the film, and also one of the most significant for Cruise. "It was more than a performance, it was a symbolic farewell," explained another source close to the actor.

Tom Cruise has not made any formal public statements, but those who know him say he is in mourning, dealing with the absence of a friend who left a mark on his personal and professional life. Val Kilmer's departure represents not only the loss of a legendary actor, but also an irreplaceable figure for Cruise.

"Val was one of a kind, and Tom knows that. That's why this hurts him so much," the insider concluded to InTouch.