Val Kilmer, the charismatic and versatile actor known for his unforgettable roles in Top Gun, Batman Forever and Tombstone, has died at the age of 65, per bbc.com. His daughter, Mercedes Kilmer, confirmed his passing on Tuesday, attributing it to complications from pneumonia. The actor had previously battled throat cancer, which he overcame but which left lasting effects on his voice and career.
Kilmer’s death marks the end of an era for Hollywood, where he carved out a legacy as one of the most dynamic and unpredictable actors of his generation. From playing Iceman opposite Tom Cruise in Top Gun (1986) to embodying Jim Morrison in The Doors (1991), Kilmer brought intensity and depth to every role.
Born in Los Angeles in 1959, Kilmer quickly rose to fame with early comedic roles in Top Secret! (1984) and Real Genius (1985). But it was his turn as the cocky fighter pilot Iceman in Top Gun that cemented his place in pop culture. Decades later, he reprised the role in Top Gun: Maverick (2022), delivering a poignant performance that resonated with longtime fans.
Kilmer’s portrayal of Batman in Batman Forever (1995) and Doc Holliday in Tombstone (1993) further showcased his range. His performance as Holliday, in particular, earned widespread acclaim, with co-stars and critics hailing it as one of the greatest supporting roles in Western cinema.
In 2014, Kilmer was diagnosed with throat cancer, undergoing a tracheotomy that drastically altered his voice. Despite this, he continued to work, even documenting his journey in the 2021 autobiographical film *Val*, which premiered at Cannes. The raw, introspective project revealed his struggles and triumphs, earning praise for its honesty.
Following the news of his death, tributes poured in from across the entertainment industry.
– Michael Mann, director of Heat (1995), called Kilmer “a brilliant, unpredictable force” on Instagram.
– Josh Gad (Frozen) thanked Kilmer for “defining so many movies of my childhood.”
– James Woods praised his Tombstone performance as “what every actor dreams of achieving.”
Tom Cruise, who starred alongside Kilmer in both Top Gun films, once said, “He’s such a powerful actor that he instantly became that character again.”
Kilmer was also an accomplished artist, creating vivid paintings inspired by his film roles. His memoir, I’m Your Huckleberry (2020), offered further insight into his life, career and spiritual beliefs as a Christian Scientist.
Kilmer is survived by his two children, Mercedes and Jack.
- Featured image: Getty Images
