EL SEGUNDO, Calif. — Actor Charles Parnell, who plays Adm. Solomon Warlock Bates in the new film “Top Gun: Maverick,” discusses his role. 

Parnell talks about the significance of the film and what it means for audiences. 

He shares personal stories of working closely with Tom Cruise while filming the movie. 

Parnell says you don’t need to have seen the original for the new one to make sense. He recommends viewing the original “Top Gun” film as a prequel.