Val Kilmer, the iconic American actor famed for his roles in beloved films like "Top Gun" and "Batman Forever," passed away at the age of 65 from pneumonia. His daughter, Mercedes Kilmer, confirmed his death, revealing that he had been diagnosed with throat cancer in 2014 but had shown recovery afterward. Sadly, complications from a tracheotomy surgery affected his voice, leading to a decline in his acting roles. Nevertheless, Kilmer made a remarkable return to Hollywood by reprising his role as Iceman in the 2022 blockbuster "Top Gun: Maverick," alongside Tom Cruise.
Kilmer's filmography is rich, featuring memorable performances in hits such as "The Doors," where he portrayed iconic musician Jim Morrison, the Western "Tombstone," and the crime drama "Heat." His prowess as an actor transcended genres, capturing the hearts of audiences throughout the 1980s and 90s. Following the news of his passing, actor Josh Brolin took to Instagram to pay tribute, describing Kilmer as "a smart, challenging, brave, uber-creative firecracker," underscoring the impact he made on those around him.
In 2021, Kilmer showcased his remarkable life in a documentary titled "Val," which debuted at the Cannes Film Festival, chronicling his journey through the highs and lows of his career and personal life. The film included a collection of 40 years of home recordings, depicting a deeply personal account of his struggles and triumphs, especially after his battle with cancer.
Born Val Edward Kilmer in Los Angeles on December 31, 1959, he grew up in a middle-class family with a strong Christian Science background. At 17, he became the youngest student ever accepted to the prestigious Juilliard School in New York City. Kilmer is survived by his two children from his marriage to actress Joanne Whalley, and his legacy continues to resonate through the many characters he brought to life on screen.
