Renowned Hollywood actor Val Kilmer, best known for his roles in Top Gun, Batman Forever, and The Doors, has passed away at the age of 65.
His daughter, Mercedes Kilmer, confirmed his death on Wednesday, stating that the actor died from pneumonia at his Los Angeles home on April 1, 2025.
Kilmer, a celebrated performer with a career spanning decades, left an indelible mark on the film industry.
His role as Iceman in Top Gun remains one of the most iconic performances in action cinema, while his portrayal of Bruce Wayne in Batman Forever solidified his legacy as one of Hollywood’s leading stars.
Following the news of his passing, tributes have flooded social media, with fans and colleagues expressing their grief. Paramount Pictures, the production company behind Top Gun, honored him with a heartfelt message:
“Remembering Val Kilmer, whose indelible cinematic mark spanned genres and generations. RIP Iceman.”
Several Hollywood stars have also shared their condolences, remembering Kilmer not just for his acting talent but for his resilience and courage in the face of health struggles.
In 2014, Kilmer was diagnosed with throat cancer, a battle that significantly affected his health and career.
He underwent chemotherapy, radiation therapy, and a tracheostomy, which impacted his ability to speak. Despite these challenges, he remained active in the industry, sharing his story through his memoir I’m Your Huckleberry and the Amazon Prime documentary Val.
In the documentary, Kilmer spoke candidly about his condition, saying:
“I can’t speak without plugging this hole (in my throat). You have to make the choice to breathe or to eat. It’s an obstacle that is very present with whoever sees me.”
Born on December 31, 1959, in Los Angeles, Kilmer was the son of a real estate developer and a homemaker.
He attended Chatsworth High School alongside Kevin Spacey and Mare Winningham before becoming the youngest person ever admitted to Juilliard at the age of 17.
His breakthrough came with Top Secret! in 1984, followed by Real Genius in 1985. He went on to star in blockbuster hits such as Tombstone, The Saint, and Heat, cementing his status as one of Hollywood’s most versatile actors.
In 1988, Kilmer married actress Joanne Whalley, with whom he had two children before their divorce in 1996.