Val Kilmer, the legendary actor known for his roles in Top Gun, The Doors, and Batman Forever, has passed away at the age of 65. The actor’s family confirmed the sad news to The New York Times, revealing that Kilmer’s daughter, Mercedes, stated that pneumonia was the cause of his death.
Kilmer, a Juilliard-trained actor, first gained widespread recognition for his portrayal of the iconic Iceman in Top Gun (1986). His career soared further when he took on the role of legendary rock star Jim Morrison in The Doors (1991), followed by playing the caped crusader in Batman Forever (1995).
In 2014, Kilmer was diagnosed with throat cancer, a diagnosis that profoundly affected his career. However, after a period of recovery, he made a memorable return to the big screen, appearing in a cameo in Top Gun: Maverick (2022), the long-awaited sequel to the 1986 blockbuster.
Despite his success, Kilmer’s career was marked by both extraordinary highs and difficult moments, including conflicts on set and several films that didn’t perform well at the box office. His influence on Hollywood, however, remained significant, particularly in the 1990s.
The actor’s life and career were poignantly captured in the 2021 documentary Val, which debuted at the Cannes Film Festival, offering fans an inside look at his journey through the highs and lows of fame.
Kilmer’s passing marks the end of an era for fans of his iconic roles. His impact on the entertainment industry will remain a lasting part of Hollywood’s legacy.