Val Kilmer, Iconic Actor Of Top Gun And Batman, Dies At 65

Val Kilmer, the versatile actor best known for his iconic roles as Iceman in "Top Gun," Batman in "Batman Forever," and Jim Morrison in "The Doors," has passed away at the age of 65. His daughter, Mercedes Kilmer, confirmed that he died on April 1, 2025, in Los Angeles, surrounded by family and friends, due to pneumonia.

Kilmer's journey in the entertainment industry began at a young age. Born in Los Angeles in 1959, he was one of the youngest students ever admitted to the prestigious Juilliard School at just 17 years old. He made his film debut in the 1984 spy spoof "Top Secret!" followed by the comedy "Real Genius" in 1985. However, it was his role as Tom "Iceman" Kazansky in the 1986 blockbuster "Top Gun" that catapulted him to stardom.

His career peaked in the early 1990s with notable performances in films like "Tombstone," where he portrayed the charming gunslinger Doc Holliday, and Oliver Stone's "The Doors," which showcased his portrayal of the legendary rock frontman. Kilmer's performance in "Tombstone" was particularly praised, leading to his casting as Bruce Wayne in "Batman Forever" in 1995. Despite mixed reviews, the film was a commercial success, solidifying Kilmer's status as a leading man in Hollywood.

However, his career was not without its challenges. Kilmer faced significant health issues, having been diagnosed with throat cancer in 2014. The treatments he underwent, including chemotherapy and two tracheotomies, severely affected his speaking voice, reducing it to a whisper. In a poignant moment captured in the 2021 documentary "Val," he reflected on his health struggles, stating, "You have to make the choice to breathe or to eat. It's an obstacle that is very present with whoever sees me."

Despite his health battles, Kilmer continued to work in the industry. He reprised his role as Iceman in the 2022 sequel "Top Gun: Maverick," marking a significant return to the character that had defined his early career. The film was well-received, and Kilmer's appearance was celebrated by fans and critics alike.

Throughout his career, Kilmer was known for his intense preparation for roles. He famously filled his bed with ice to mimic the feeling of dying from tuberculosis while filming "Tombstone" and immersed himself deeply into the character of Jim Morrison, insisting that cast and crew refer to him as Morrison during the shoot. His dedication to his craft earned him both admiration and a reputation for being difficult to work with. Director Joel Schumacher once remarked, "I pray I don’t work with [Kilmer] again... we had two weeks where he did not speak to me, but it was bliss."

In addition to his film work, Kilmer had a varied career that included stage performances and voice work. He starred in a one-man show titled "Citizen Twain," where he portrayed Mark Twain, and lent his voice to the character K.I.T.T. in NBC's remake of "Knight Rider." His artistic pursuits extended beyond acting; Kilmer published two books of poetry and was nominated for a Grammy in 2012 for his spoken word album "The Mark of Zorro."

Kilmer's personal life was also marked by high-profile relationships. He married British actress Joanne Whalley in 1988, and the couple had two children, Mercedes and Jack, before divorcing in 1996. He later dated several celebrities, including singer Cher and actress Daryl Hannah, with whom he had a particularly painful breakup, describing it as "by far the most painful" heartbreak he had endured.

In his later years, Kilmer became more politically active, expressing interest in running for governor of New Mexico and participating in various political campaigns, including Ralph Nader's 2008 presidential run. His engagement with social issues reflected a desire to use his platform for advocacy.

Tributes to Kilmer have poured in from friends and colleagues. Actor Josh Brolin honored him on Instagram, saying, "You were a smart, challenging, brave, uber-creative firecracker. There’s not a lot left of those. I hope to see you up there in the heavens when I eventually get there." Michael Mann, who directed Kilmer in "Heat," expressed his admiration for Kilmer's range and talent, stating, "While working with Val on 'Heat,' I always marveled at the range, the brilliant variability within the powerful current of Val’s possessing and expressing character."

Despite the ups and downs of his career, Kilmer's legacy as a talented and complex actor remains. He was not just a Hollywood star; he was a passionate artist who left an indelible mark on the film industry. Val Kilmer is survived by his two children, Mercedes and Jack, who carry on his artistic spirit.