Val Kilmer, ‘Top Gun’ star, dies at 65.
Actor Val Kilmer, known for his roles in Top Gun and Batman Forever, has passed away at the age of 65. His daughter, Mercedes Kilmer, revealed that pneumonia was the cause of his death, according to Variety. Kilmer had previously battled throat cancer, which affected his health in recent years. Fans and Hollywood stars are mourning the loss of the legendary actor, remembering his iconic performances.
Los Angeles: Hollywood actor Val Kilmer, renowned for portraying several memorable characters, has passed away at the age of 65 in Los Angeles. He was known for playing Bruce Wayne in Batman Forever, Jim Morrison in Oliver Stone’s The Doors, and the tubercular Doc Holliday in Tombstone.
His daughter, Mercedes Kilmer, confirmed that pneumonia was the cause of his passing, according to Variety.
Kilmer had battled throat cancer for several years, which significantly impacted his health. His representatives have yet to respond to requests for comment regarding his demise.
According to Variety, Kilmer had a strong career in the 1980s and 1990s, excelling as a leading man despite having a reputation for being temperamental. He starred in several successful films, including Top Gun, Real Genius, Willow, Heat, and The Saint.
Despite his health struggles, he made a brief return to the big screen in 2022’s Top Gun: Maverick. However, due to the effects of his cancer, he could no longer speak.
Mercedes Kilmer also disclosed the cause of his death to The New York Times.
In 2021, a documentary titled Val chronicled Kilmer’s life and career. It featured his personal recordings collected over the years, providing an intimate look at his journey in Hollywood. Since Kilmer had lost his voice, his son narrated the film, offering insight into the actor’s introspective and artistic nature.
Kilmer took over the role of Batman from Michael Keaton in Joel Schumacher’s 1995 film Batman Forever, which received mixed reviews. He was later replaced by George Clooney for 1997’s Batman & Robin, a film widely criticized and considered a major misstep for the franchise.
Before achieving stardom, Kilmer reportedly turned down a role in Francis Ford Coppola’s The Outsiders. His breakthrough came in 1984 with the spy spoof Top Secret!, where he played a rock star and showcased his singing abilities. His career continued to rise when he portrayed a brilliant college student in the 1985 sci-fi comedy Real Genius. However, his status as a major star solidified with his role alongside Tom Cruise in the 1986 blockbuster Top Gun, which became a worldwide sensation.
Kilmer’s career spanned decades, earning him a dedicated fan base and critical acclaim for his versatile performances. Though his later years were marked by health challenges, his contributions to cinema remain significant. His passing marks the end of an era for Hollywood, as fans and industry peers mourn the loss of a remarkable talent.