Val Kilmer's Playful Prank Nearly Drove Tom Cruise Crazy
Behind the cameras of the iconic 1986 film, the Iceman actor found a hilariously childish way to get under his co-star's skin, turning their on-screen rivalry into real-life mischief that had everyone laughing.
The legendary rivalry between Maverick and Iceman wasn't just limited to what audiences saw on screen. During filming of the 1986 blockbuster, Val Kilmer discovered an amusing way to mess with Tom Cruise that perfectly mirrored their characters' competitive dynamic.
The Children's Book Gag That Started It All
Kilmer revealed in multiple interviews how he would deliberately needle his co-star using the most ridiculous method imaginable. The Batman Forever actor would gift Cruise children's books about aviation, complete with large print and simple illustrations from the Smithsonian collection.
"I'd get him kids' books on how to fly, like big large print in the Smithsonian. 'How To Fly A Plane.' Like things to torture him like the character would do —we had a great time," Kilmer explained during an Entertainment Tonight interview.
Method Acting Taken to Extremes
In his 2021 Prime Video documentary, Kilmer explained how he developed an elaborate backstory for Iceman that fueled his behavior both on and off camera. He created a psychological profile for his character that helped justify the arrogance audiences witnessed.
"I manifested a backstory for him, where he had a father who ignored him, and as a result, I was driven by a need to be perfect in every way. This obsession with perfection is what made him so arrogant," the actor shared.
This commitment to character development led to what Kilmer described as "two distinct camps" forming among the cast members, with actors seemingly choosing sides in the Maverick versus Iceman debate.
Friendship Beyond the Rivalry
Despite the playful antagonism, Kilmer was quick to clarify that their relationship remained genuinely positive throughout production. The pranks and tension were all part of an elaborate performance that enhanced their on-screen chemistry.
"It was fun to play up the conflict between our characters, but in reality, I've always thought of Tom as a friend, and we've always supported each other," he explained.
Kilmer also noted in a Reddit AMA that Cruise's demanding schedule often kept him isolated from the rest of the cast during downtime. "I actually felt a little sorry for him… But Tom was always in some scene and never go to play with us," he recalled.
Their bond proved lasting enough that Kilmer returned for the 2022 sequel, where Iceman served as a trusted advisor to Maverick. Following Kilmer's passing in April 2025, Cruise delivered an emotional tribute at CinemaCon, honoring their decades-long friendship and professional collaboration.