Acclaimed actor Val Kilmer, known for his iconic roles in Top Gun and Batman Forever, has died at the age of 65. Kilmer passed away on April 1, 2025, in Los Angeles due to complications from pneumonia, his daughter Mercedes Kilmer confirmed.
Kilmer, who gained fame as fighter pilot Iceman in the 1986 blockbuster Top Gun, had been battling health issues for years. In 2014, he was diagnosed with throat cancer, which led to a tracheotomy that significantly impacted his voice and curtailed his acting career.
Despite his health struggles, Kilmer made a triumphant return to the screen in 2022, reprising his iconic role as Iceman alongside Tom Cruise in Top Gun: Maverick. Advanced digital technology was used to recreate his voice, allowing him to participate in the long-awaited sequel.
Born on December 31, 1959, in Los Angeles, Kilmer displayed an early passion for acting. He became the youngest student ever admitted to Juilliard’s Drama Division, marking the start of a remarkable career that would span decades and showcase his diverse talents.
Kilmer’s breakout role came in the 1984 comedy Top Secret!, followed by the cult classic Real Genius (1985). He cemented his status as a Hollywood heavyweight with his portrayal of Jim Morrison in Oliver Stone’s The Doors (1991), a performance that garnered critical acclaim.
In 1995, Kilmer donned the cape and cowl as Batman in Batman Forever, adding another legendary character to his repertoire. He also starred in the Western Tombstone as Doc Holliday and in the crime drama Heat, further demonstrating his range and versatility as an actor.
Paying tribute to the late star, Heat director Michael Mann praised Kilmer’s ability to channel dynamic energy into his performances. “Working with Val on Heat was an experience of marveling at his range and spirit,” Mann said. “After so many years of Val battling disease and maintaining his spirit, this is tremendously sad news.”
Fellow actor Josh Brolin took to Instagram to express his sorrow, remembering Kilmer as a “smart, challenging, brave, uber-creative firecracker.” Brolin shared a photo of himself with Kilmer, adding, “See ya, pal. I’m going to miss you.”
Actor James Woods also paid tribute to Kilmer’s talent, calling his portrayal of Doc Holliday in Tombstone “the performance every actor dreams of achieving.” Other Hollywood figures and fans alike expressed their condolences, reflecting on Kilmer’s immense impact on cinema.
Val Kilmer is survived by his two children, Mercedes and Jack. His contributions to film and his unwavering spirit in the face of health challenges have left an indelible mark on Hollywood.
