In “Top Gun: Maverick,” Kazansky — who had risen to the rank of admiral — was dying of throat cancer and unable to speak, but wanted to talk with Maverick one final time. During the emotional reunion that took place in a home office, Kazansky gave Maverick the advice, “It’s time to let go.”

At CinemaCon, Tom Cruise honored Val Kilmer, his "Top Gun" and "Maverick" co-star who died April 1, with an emotional moment of silence.

Jerry Bruckheimer, a producer on the sequel, said in 2022 that Tom Cruise was the "driving force" behind getting Val Kilmer to return for the movie.