You probably remember Kelly McGillis as the stunning flight instructor Charlie in the original Top Gun—her chemistry with Tom Cruise, her intelligence, and her quiet confidence made her unforgettable. But what many people don’t know is the heartbreaking story that followed. While Top Gun soared to become a franchise, Kelly ’s life took a much darker turn. And the reason she wasn’t invited back for the sequels? It’s as painful as it is revealing. Known for starring with Tom Cruise in the original Top Gun, Kelly McGillis seemingly left the spotlight after her breakout role. Here's what happened. Kelly McGillis was a huge Hollywood sensation in the 1980s, but in recent years, the Top Gun star has stayed largely out of the spotlight. Kelly McGillis , who played Charlie in Top Gun, faced rape, mugging, divorce and addiction. She came out as gay in 2009 and refused to return for the sequel in 2022.
