Val Kilmer, a major Hollywood actor in the 1980s and 1990s, has passed away at 65. His daughter, Mercedes Kilmer, confirmed to The New York Times that he died from pneumonia complications on Tuesday. Kilmer had been battling throat cancer since 2014.
Kilmer was known for iconic roles including Bruce Wayne in “Batman Forever” and Iceman in “Top Gun.” His final appearance was in “Top Gun: Maverick” (2022), where another actor dubbed his dialogue due to his illness.
Born in December 1959 in Los Angeles, Kilmer became the youngest actor ever admitted to Juilliard’s drama program at 17. He debuted on Broadway in 1983 and secured his first leading film role in “Top Secret!” (1984).
He earned acclaim portraying Jim Morrison in Oliver Stone’s “The Doors” (1991), and starred in “Heat,” “Tombstone,” and voiced a character in “The Prince of Egypt” (1998).
In later years, Kilmer stepped away from mainstream films due to fewer roles and a reputation for being challenging on set. He shifted focus to theatre, performing a one-man Mark Twain show and creating educational theatre programs. Kilmer was also passionate about painting and lived on a ranch in New Mexico.
Kilmer was previously married to actress Joanne Whalley; they divorced in 1996 and had two children.
About The Author
