Both Will Forte and Val Kilmer had an earnest desire to compete together on The Amazing Race, but ultimately, their ambitions were thwarted by their respective agents. This revelation sheds light on the behind-the-scenes dynamics that often dictate the paths of even the most enthusiastic celebrities.
Will Forte and Val Kilmer first collaborated on the comedic film MacGruber, and it was during this project that they forged a deep friendship. Their bond grew even stronger when Kilmer, facing difficulties related to his housing situation, sought refuge with Forte, staying at his home for nearly three months. In a heartfelt piece for Vulture, Forte reflected on this time, expressing regret over not being able to join Kilmer on The Amazing Race. This missed opportunity highlights how genuine friendships can lead to exciting adventures that never come to fruition.
Forte recounted, “I used to watch ‘The Amazing Race,’ and he came back home at some point when I was watching it and was like, ‘What are you watching that garbage for? Come on, that stuff’s going to rot your mind.’ I said, ‘It’s pretty good. You should sit down and watch it. Give it a try before you s—t on it,’” Forte explained. “So he sat down and he started watching it, and he got really into it. Then, at a certain point, he said, ‘Will, you and I have to go do ‘The Amazing Race.’ We have to. Let’s do ‘The Amazing Race.’” I’m like, ‘I am so fully in.’” This playful exchange exemplifies their camaraderie and the kind of spontaneous plans friends often make together.
Reflecting on their enthusiasm, Forte stated, “We got really excited about it, and then we called our respective agents and managers, and they were like, ‘There’s no way you guys are doing that.’ That is, maybe to this day, the biggest regret of my whole career — that I never did ‘The Amazing Race’ with Val. I think we would’ve gotten out very quickly, but it just would’ve been the experience of a lifetime.” This anecdote emphasizes not only their excitement but also the obstacles faced by creative individuals when trying to pursue their passions, especially in reality television.
As Forte prepared for his role in MacGruber, he experienced anxiety about working alongside Kilmer, fearing that he might abandon the project. However, he soon discovered that Kilmer was a remarkably generous person, willing to go above and beyond for his friends and colleagues.
“I remember one time, I got to set, and he was wearing this red plaid shirt. I said, ‘Oh man, that’s my kind of shirt! That is right up my alley!’ And he just took the shirt off and said, ‘This is yours now,’” Forte recalled. “Then he was just sitting there with his shirt off, fully exposed to the world, while we continued to talk. Without even thinking, he literally gave me the shirt off his back. He was the most interesting person in the world, because there were so many elements to his personality. He was incredibly funny and incredibly smart. He could be super-silly and then turn around and be a little frickin’ devil — but a sweet little devil. Life is more vivid when you’re hanging out with Val.” This encounter illustrates Kilmer’s spontaneous generosity and reflects the essence of their friendship.
The passing of Val Kilmer at the age of 65 is a profound loss for the film industry and his fans. He delivered unforgettable performances in numerous iconic films that left a lasting impact on cinema. Despite the challenges posed by throat cancer, which affected his voice, it was heartwarming to witness his return in Top Gun: Maverick, where he reprised his role as Admiral Tom “Iceman” Kazansky, reminding us of his incredible talent and resilience.
