Hollywood Icon Val Kilmer Passes Away at 65
Renowned actor Val Kilmer, best known for his roles in Top Gun, Batman Forever, and The Doors, has passed away at the age of 65. According to The New York Times, Kilmer succumbed to pneumonia, as confirmed by his daughter Mercedes Kilmer. The actor had previously battled throat cancer after being diagnosed in 2014 but later recovered.
Kilmer’s career spanned decades, marked by a mix of blockbuster hits and independent films. He first gained attention in **1984’s Top Secret! ** before achieving mainstream fame as Tom “Iceman” Kazansky in the 1986 action classic Top Gun, where he starred alongside Tom Cruise. He later took on the legendary role of Jim Morrison in The Doors and portrayed Bruce Wayne in Batman Forever.
Despite his Hollywood success, Kilmer was known for his eccentric personality and complex working relationships. He was an actor deeply committed to his craft, even studying at the prestigious Juilliard School. However, his career faced setbacks in the early 2000s, leading him to shift toward independent projects.
In 2021, the documentary Val showcased Kilmer’s journey through Hollywood, his health struggles, and his reflections on fame. He made a heartfelt return to the big screen in 2022’s Top Gun: Maverick, reprising his role as Iceman in an emotional scene alongside Cruise.
On his website, Kilmer once described his life as “magical,” emphasizing his passion for art, poetry, music, and filmmaking. He is survived by his two children, Mercedes and Jack Kilmer.
