Val Kilmer, the celebrated actor known for his iconic roles in films like Top Gun, Batman Forever, and The Doors, passed away on April 1, 2025, at the age of 65 due to pneumonia. His daughter, Mercedes Kilmer, confirmed the news, which has since elicited an outpouring of tributes from fans and fellow celebrities alike.
Kilmer's career spanned several decades, during which he became renowned for his intense performances and dedication to his craft. He first rose to fame in the 1980s with his breakthrough roles in the comedies Top Secret! (1984) and Real Genius (1985). However, it was his portrayal of Tom "Iceman" Kazansky in the original Top Gun (1986) that solidified his status as a Hollywood star. His recent reprisal of the role in Top Gun: Maverick (2022) marked a poignant return to the screen, showcasing his enduring legacy in the film industry.
Throughout his life, Kilmer faced significant health challenges. He was diagnosed with throat cancer in 2014, which drastically affected his ability to communicate. After undergoing extensive treatment, including chemotherapy and two tracheotomies, he was declared cancer-free. However, the toll of his illness was evident, as he later spoke using a voice box. His journey through illness was poignantly captured in the 2021 documentary Val, which highlighted both his artistic achievements and personal struggles.
Following the announcement of his passing, Cher, Kilmer's former girlfriend, took to social media to express her grief. In a heartfelt tribute posted on X (formerly Twitter) on April 2, Cher wrote: "VALUS Will miss u. U Were funny, crazy, pain in the ass, GREAT FRIEND, kids [love] U. BRILLIANT as Mark Twain, BRAVE here during ur sickness." Cher and Kilmer dated for two years in the early 1980s, a relationship that raised eyebrows due to their 13-year age difference.
The couple first met at a birthday party for Cher, where they quickly bonded over shared interests and humor. Cher, now 78, has often reflected fondly on their time together. In a November 2024 interview with Howard Stern, she revealed that Kilmer was the one who broke up with her, despite her being "madly in love" with him. She noted, "Because sometimes you're only meant to stay with someone so long," acknowledging the challenges posed by Kilmer's youth at the time.
During Kilmer's health struggles, Cher remained a steadfast friend. In his memoir I'm Your Huckleberry (2020), he recounted a harrowing night when he awoke to find himself vomiting blood. He called 911 and alerted Cher, who stepped in to help him through the crisis. Kilmer humorously recalled, "And yet even in my grave condition, I saw her scanning the paramedic, who was Gregory Peck drop-dead handsome. Only in Hollywood, right?" This anecdote highlights the deep bond they shared, even amid difficult circumstances.
In addition to Cher, numerous other celebrities have paid tribute to Kilmer. Tom Cruise, who starred alongside him in Top Gun, expressed his sorrow during an interview, reflecting on their emotional reunion during the filming of Maverick. "I just want to say that was pretty emotional. I’ve known Val for decades," Cruise shared. "He’s such a powerful actor that he instantly became that character again."
Kilmer's legacy also includes his marriage to British actress Joanne Whalley, whom he met on the set of Willow (1988). The couple had two children, Mercedes and Jack, before divorcing in 1996. Kilmer often spoke about the pain of being separated from his children, stating, "I miss my children every single way that's possible, and ways I didn't know were possible." His relationship with Whalley was marked by both love and turbulence, as he learned of their divorce while watching CNN in a hotel room.
In his later years, Kilmer expressed feelings of loneliness, admitting in his memoir that he had not dated anyone for 20 years. "I haven't had a girlfriend in 20 years," he wrote. "The truth is I am lonely part of every day." Despite his struggles, Kilmer remained a beloved figure in Hollywood, known for his generosity and kindness.
As tributes continue to pour in, many remember Kilmer not just for his roles but for his vibrant personality and the laughter he brought to those around him. Director Edgar Wright reflected on Kilmer's impact, stating, "Farewell Val, you burned very bright." Fellow actors like Kyle MacLachlan and Matthew Modine also shared their fond memories, underscoring the profound influence Kilmer had on his peers.
Val Kilmer's passing marks the end of an era for many fans who grew up watching his films. His unique talents and unforgettable performances have left an indelible mark on cinema, ensuring that he will be remembered as one of Hollywood's greats.
