Val Kilmer, the actor known for his roles in ‘Top Gun,’ ‘Batman Forever,’ and ‘The Doors,’ passed away on April 1, 2025, at the age of 65 due to pneumonia.
Born in Los Angeles in 1959, Kilmer began his acting journey on stage, gaining early recognition for his performances in comedies like ‘Top Secret!’ and ‘Real Genius.’ He achieved widespread fame portraying Tom “Iceman” Kazansky in the 1986 blockbuster ‘Top Gun.’ His depiction of Jim Morrison in Oliver Stone’s 1991 film ‘The Doors’ further showcased his depth as an actor. In 1995, Kilmer took on the iconic role of Bruce Wayne/Batman in ‘Batman Forever,’ solidifying his status as a Hollywood leading man.
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Throughout his career, Kilmer was celebrated for his intense method acting, which, while yielding memorable performances, sometimes led to reports of challenging on-set behavior. Despite these challenges, his dedication to his craft was evident in films such as ‘Tombstone,’ ‘Heat,’ and ‘Kiss Kiss Bang Bang.’
In 2014, Kilmer was diagnosed with throat cancer, leading to a tracheotomy that significantly affected his voice. Despite these health setbacks, he continued to engage with his passion for acting, notably reprising his role as Iceman in the 2022 sequel ‘Top Gun: Maverick.’
Kilmer is survived by his two children, Mercedes and Jack.
