Los Angeles – Val Kilmer, the versatile actor known for defining roles in Top Gun, Batman Forever, and Tombstone, has died at age 65. His daughter, Mercedes, confirmed he passed away from pneumonia on Tuesday in Los Angeles. The news that Val Kilmer dies marks the end of a dynamic career marked by memorable performances and resilience against health challenges.
Kilmer faced a significant health battle with throat cancer, diagnosed in 2014. He underwent a tracheotomy that permanently altered his speaking voice but did not extinguish his creative spirit.
A Career of Iconic Roles and Comebacks
Val Kilmer captured audience attention across diverse genres. He shot to fame as the cool rival Iceman in Top Gun (1986) and brought memorable intensity to the caped crusader in Batman Forever (1995). His portrayal of the ailing gunslinger Doc Holliday in Tombstone (1993) remains highly acclaimed. Despite his health struggles, Kilmer made a powerful return to the screen, reprising Iceman in 2022’s Top Gun: Maverick. Co-star Tom Cruise noted Kilmer’s strength, saying he “instantly became that character again.” The film world reflects on these achievements as Val Kilmer dies. His range extended from early comedies like Top Secret! (1984) to portraying rock legend Jim Morrison in The Doors (1991).
Tributes Pour In for a Complex Talent
Colleagues remembered Kilmer’s unique talent and presence. Director Michael Mann (Heat) praised his “brilliant variability.” Actor James Woods lauded his Tombstone role as “what every actor dreams of achieving.” While sometimes known for intensity on set, others like actor Will Kemp remembered him as “generous and overall very kind.” The confirmation that Val Kilmer dies brings sadness to many who worked with him or admired his work. A Juilliard graduate, Kilmer also starred in cult films like Willow (1988) and The Saint (1997), voiced characters in The Prince of Egypt (1998), documented his life in the raw 2021 film Val, and pursued painting.
Val Kilmer is survived by his two children, Mercedes and Jack.
