Batman actor, Val Kilmer dies at 65

Val Kilmer, the legendary Hollywood star, known for his roles in iconic films like Top Gun, Batman Forever, and The Doors, has died at the age of 65.

His daughter, Mercedes Kilmer, confirmed his death to the press on Wednesday.

According to Mercedes, in a statement to the New York Times, the actor died from pneumonia.

He passed away at his Los Angeles home on Tuesday, April 1. Fans and colleagues alike are mourning the loss of the talented actor, who will always be remembered for his contributions to film.

On social media, film production company Paramount Pictures paid tribute to the US actor. A joint Instagram post from the company, Paramount Home Entertainment, and the official Top Gun social media channel said, “Remembering Val Kilmer, whose indelible cinematic mark spanned genres and generations. RIP Iceman.”

Back in 2014, the actor was diagnosed with throat cancer, a battle that left him unable to speak and largely out of the spotlight for years. He discussed his diagnosis and recovery in his 2020 memoir, I’m Your Huckleberry and Amazon Prime Documentary Val.

Val underwent both radiotherapy and chemotherapy, as well as a tracheostomy, which damaged his vocal cords. “I obviously am sounding much worse than I feel,” the Hollywood icon said in the documentary.

He added, “I can’t speak without plugging this hole (in his throat). You have to make the choice to breathe or to eat. It’s an obstacle that is very present with whoever sees me.” Kilmer was born on December 31, 1959, in Los Angeles to real estate developer Eugene and homemaker Gladys.

The middle of three sons, he attended Chatsworth High School with Kevin Spacey and Mare Winningham. At 17, he became the youngest person accepted into Juilliard.

Kilmer’s breakout role came in 1984 with Top Secret! and he followed it up with Real Genius in 1985.

In 1988, he married actress Joanne Whalley, whom he met while filming Willow. They had two children before divorcing in 1996.