Before Iceman, Nick "Goose" Bradshaw, played by Anthony Edwards, was Maverick's best friend and wingman. In "Top Gun," Goose is a Radar Intercept Officer who grows close with Maverick as they train together at the flight school. Unfortunately, Goose tragically dies in a flight accident and leaves behind his best friend, wife Carole, and a son named Bradley "Rooster" Bradshaw.
Edwards landed a few roles in successful films before his appearance in "Top Gun," and had acting credits that included "Fast Times at Ridgemont High" and "Revenge of the Nerds" at the time.