I read somewhere else that he provided a slot for Val Kilmer in this sequel. Anyone got the specifics?
Yes, there is mention of this in a “reunion shot” where the critic says it will give you a lump in your throat.
Val Kilmer's character, Tom "Iceman" Kazansky, is a Vice Admiral and Commander, Naval Air Forces in Maverick.
Because of Kilmer's health issues involving throat cancer, including using a feeding tube, and a stoma plugged into his trachea to speak, they filmed all of his scenes early in the production, and used AI to recreate his voice.
I know a few of the Naval Aviators from Top Gun who did the actual flying scenes in this movie. They reported that it was intense and emotional when Kilmer was on the set, as Kilmer and Cruise are good friends and knew it was probably their last chance to work together.
There was a sneak preview of Maverick at Naval Station Coronado, CA and NAS Fallon, NV last weekend. Tom Cruise showed up for the preview at Coronado and thanked the Navy and the Sailors for their support in making the movie.
Early reports from those who saw the preview is that the movie is pretty good.