Val Kilmer, Star of ‘Top Gun’ and ‘Batman Forever,’ Dies at 65

Hollywood Star Val Kilmer, known for his roles in Top Gun, The Doors, and Batman Forever, has passed away at the age of 65. The cause of death was pneumonia, as confirmed by his daughter, Mercedes Kilmer. Val Kilmer’s death marks the end of a career that saw incredible highs and tumultuous lows. A Juilliard-trained actor, he was celebrated for his talent and intensity but also gained a reputation for being difficult to work with. Despite this, his performances left an undeniable mark on the film industry.

A Career of Iconic Roles

Val Kilmer made his film debut in the 1984 spy spoof Top Secret!, followed by Real Genius (1985). However, his breakout moment came in 1986 when he starred alongside Tom Cruise as Tom “Iceman” Kazansky in Top Gun. His portrayal of the cocky but skilled fighter pilot made him a fan favourite. He continued his rise with memorable performances in Willow (1988) and The Doors (1991), where he transformed into rock legend Jim Morrison. To land the role, he created an eight-minute audition tape of himself singing and embodying Morrison, impressing director Oliver Stone. Kilmer’s own singing voice was used in the film, showcasing his dedication to the craft.

Val Kilmer alongside Tom Cruise in Top Gun – 1986

The 1990s saw Kilmer at his peak. He played Doc Holliday in Tombstone (1993), a performance many consider his best. In 1995, he took on the iconic role of Batman in Batman Forever, replacing Michael Keaton. Though commercially successful, the film received mixed reviews, and Kilmer’s off-screen behaviour led to his declining to return for the sequel. Director Joel Schumacher later called him “the most psychologically troubled human being I’ve ever worked with.”

Val Kilmer in The Doors – 1991, his Jim Morrison transformation 

His career took a hit after difficult productions like The Island of Dr. Moreau (1996), where he famously feuded with Marlon Brando. Director John Frankenheimer later said, “There isn’t enough money in the world to make me work with Val Kilmer again.”

Val Kilmer as ‘Batman’ in Batman Forever 

Challenges and Resilience

Despite professional setbacks, Kilmer continued working in Hollywood, starring in films like The Saint (1997), Red Planet (2000), and Kiss Kiss Bang Bang (2005). In 2014, Kilmer was diagnosed with throat cancer, undergoing radiation, chemotherapy, and a tracheostomy that permanently altered his voice. Despite these health struggles, he made a triumphant return to the big screen in 2022’s Top Gun: Maverick, reprising his role as Iceman. His emotional scene alongside Tom Cruise was widely praised.

Val Kilmer in The Saint (1997)

A Complex Legacy

Kilmer’s personal life was as eventful as his career. He was married to Joanne Whalley, his Willow co-star, and dated high-profile celebrities like Cher and Cindy Crawford. His relationships with directors and co-stars were often contentious, leading some to brand him a Hollywood “bad boy.” However, many colleagues defended him. Director Phillip Noyce said, “The real Val Kilmer is a lamb. And he is the hardest-working actor I’ve ever seen.”

Final Years and Passing

Even after battling cancer, Kilmer remained active in Hollywood, starring in The Snowman (2017) and Paydirt (2020), which featured his daughter, Mercedes. His death on April 2, 2025, marks the loss of one of Hollywood’s most unique and complex actors. While his reputation may have been polarizing, his talent and impact on cinema are undeniable.

Val Kilmer in Topgun Maverick -2022