LOS ANGELES (Diya TV) — Val Kilmer, the talented actor known for his performances in “Top Gun,” “Batman Forever,” and “The Doors,” passed away Tuesday evening in Los Angeles at the age of 65. His daughter, Mercedes Kilmer, told The New York Times that the reason was pneumonia.
Kilmer’s career lasted for decades, punctuated by a commitment to his work that resulted in both critically acclaimed performances and a reputation as difficult on set. He initially made waves with appearances in “Top Secret!” (1984) and “Real Genius” (1985), but it was his performance as Tom “Iceman” Kazansky in “Top Gun” (1986) that propelled him to fame. He reprised the legendary role in the 2022 sequel, “Top Gun: Maverick.
In Oliver Stone’s “The Doors” (1991), Kilmer became one with the role of Jim Morrison, receiving acclaim for his realistic performance. His dedication to roles was also seen in “Tombstone” (1993), where he portrayed Doc Holliday, and in “Batman Forever” (1995), assuming the role of the Caped Crusader.
Even with his professional achievements, Kilmer experienced health issues, such as a diagnosis of throat cancer in 2014 that necessitated two tracheotomies. He subsequently recovered, remaining active in the industry.
Tributes have come flooding in from colleagues and fans alike. Director Michael Mann, who directed Kilmer on “Heat” (1995), stated, “While working with Val on ‘Heat’, I always marveled at the range, the brilliant variability within the powerful current of Val’s possessing and expressing character.
Kilmer is survived by his two children, Mercedes and Jack. His legacy as a committed and passionate actor lives on through his extensive body of work.
