Hollywood mourns the loss of Val Kilmer, the versatile actor famed for his performances in landmark films like 'Top Gun' and 'Batman Forever', who passed away at age 65. His daughter, Mercedes, confirmed his death from pneumonia in Los Angeles, revealing that he had battled throat cancer since 2014 but managed to recover.
Kilmer’s noteworthy filmography includes the 1991 biopic 'The Doors', where he portrayed the legendary frontman Jim Morrison, as well as roles in the Western "Tombstone" and the suspenseful crime drama 'Heat'. His health challenges, notably a tracheotomy that altered his voice, had curtailed his acting for years, yet he made a triumphant return to the screen in 2022's 'Top Gun: Maverick,' reprising his acclaimed role as fighter pilot Iceman alongside Tom Cruise.
Fellow actor Josh Brolin paid tribute on Instagram, expressing his admiration for Kilmer’s creativity and courage, saying, "See ya, pal. I'm going to miss you.” In 2021, Kilmer shared a candid look at his life and career through a documentary titled 'Val', which premiered at the Cannes Film Festival, showcasing intimate home recordings and documenting his life post-cancer surgery, including his efforts to communicate with a voice box.
Born Val Edward Kilmer on December 31, 1959, he was raised in Los Angeles and pursued a passion for acting from a young age, joining the prestigious Julliard School at just 17. Kilmer leaves behind two children with his former spouse, actress Joanne Whalley, and a legacy that will endure in the hearts of his fans and colleagues.
