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Val Kilmer, ‘Top Gun’ and ‘Batman’ Star, Dies at 65
Val Kilmer, the celebrated actor known for his roles in Top Gun, Batman Forever, and The Doors, has died at the age of 65.
The New York Times reported that Kilmer passed away due to pneumonia, according to his daughter, Mercedes Kilmer.
Kilmer, who had battled throat cancer since a 2014 diagnosis, rose to fame with his portrayal of the confident fighter pilot “Iceman” in Top Gun (1986), opposite Tom Cruise.
His career spanned decades, with standout performances as Jim Morrison in The Doors and as Batman in Batman Forever.
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The actor, known for both his talent and his sometimes difficult reputation in Hollywood, was also a gifted stage performer. He was the youngest student ever accepted into Juilliard’s drama department and made his Broadway debut in 1983.
In recent years, Kilmer made a poignant return to the big screen in Top Gun: Maverick, where his real-life health struggles were woven into his character’s story. His documentary Val, released in 2021, provided an intimate look at his rise, struggles, and resilience.
On his website, Kilmer described his life as “magical,” reflecting on his passion for art, film, poetry, and music. He is survived by his two children, Mercedes and Jack Kilmer.