When Top Gun soared into theaters in 1986, it became an instant cultural phenomenon, cementing Tom Cruise as a Hollywood megastar. The film’s intense aerial combat scenes and the electrifying rivalry between Cruise’s Pete “Maverick” Mitchell and Val Kilmer’s Tom “Iceman” Kazansky made for unforgettable cinematic moments. But behind the scenes, the cast bonded in ways that went beyond the high-flying drama—including one particularly memorable prank pulled by Kilmer on Cruise.
The Intensity Behind the Scenes
During production, the actors underwent rigorous flight training and method-style acting to immerse themselves in their roles as elite naval aviators. Cruise, known for his perfectionist approach to filmmaking, took his role as Maverick very seriously. Kilmer, on the other hand, had a more laid-back and mischievous personality, often lightening the mood on set with his humor.
The Infamous “Maverick Sucks” Prank
One of the most famous behind-the-scenes stories from Top Gun is the time Kilmer decided to have some fun at Cruise’s expense. While Cruise was deeply focused on a scene, Kilmer secretly placed a sticker on his back that read “Maverick Sucks”. Unaware of the prank, Cruise continued moving around the set while the cast and crew struggled to contain their laughter.
According to reports from those who worked on the film, Cruise didn’t immediately realize why people were snickering. Eventually, someone pointed it out, leading to a good-natured reaction from the actor. Kilmer’s joke perfectly captured the real-life dynamic between the actors—one was intensely dedicated to his craft, while the other enjoyed keeping things lighthearted. The prank became legendary among Top Gun enthusiasts, reflecting Kilmer’s playful nature even as he portrayed Maverick’s onscreen rival.
From On-Set Rivals to Real-Life Friends
Despite their rivalry in the movie, Kilmer and Cruise’s relationship evolved over the years. In his 2021 documentary Val, Kilmer revealed that while they weren’t particularly close during the filming of the original Top Gun, they developed a deeper respect for each other over time.
Their reunion in Top Gun: Maverick (2022) was especially emotional for both actors. Kilmer, who battled throat cancer and underwent a tracheotomy that severely affected his ability to speak, made a heartfelt return as Iceman. Cruise personally advocated for Kilmer’s involvement in the sequel, ensuring that Iceman’s presence was not just nostalgic but meaningful to the film’s story. Their on-screen interaction in Top Gun: Maverick was widely praised and stood as a testament to their enduring bond.
Kilmer’s Legacy of Pranks
Kilmer’s prank on Cruise wasn’t an isolated incident. Known for his mischievous sense of humor, Kilmer often played jokes on his co-stars to break the tension during long and demanding shoots. He believed that having fun on set was just as important as delivering a great performance.
In his book I’m Your Huckleberry: A Memoir, Kilmer fondly recalled his time on Top Gun, acknowledging how much the experience meant to him, even as he had his fair share of playful moments.
The Enduring Impact of Top Gun
The legacy of Top Gun is still as strong as ever, with fans continuing to celebrate not only its iconic moments but also the camaraderie shared by its cast. Kilmer’s prank on Cruise remains one of the most amusing behind-the-scenes stories from the film, proving that even in the midst of an intense production, there was always room for a little humor.
For fans of Top Gun, these stories add another layer of appreciation for the film and its stars, reminding us that even Hollywood’s biggest blockbusters are made with moments of laughter and camaraderie. And if there’s one thing we’ve learned, it’s that Val Kilmer truly embodied the spirit of Iceman—both on and off the screen.
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