Actor Val Kilmer, renowned for his iconic roles in films like Top Gun, Batman Forever, and The Doors, has passed away at the age of 65. 

His daughter, Mercedes, confirmed that Kilmer died from complications of pneumonia in Los Angeles on Tuesday.

Kilmer was diagnosed with throat cancer in 2014 but made a remarkable recovery, although the disease and subsequent tracheotomy surgery altered his voice and impacted his acting career. 

Despite these challenges, he made a triumphant return to the screen in 2022, reprising his role as Iceman in Top Gun: Maverick, alongside Tom Cruise.

The actor’s career spanned decades, with memorable performances in films such as The Doors (1991), where he portrayed the legendary Jim Morrison, as well as Tombstone and Heat. Kilmer’s versatility and unique presence left a lasting mark on Hollywood.

In 2021, he released a documentary titled Val, showcasing a collection of home recordings spanning 40 years, including footage of him speaking with a voice box after his cancer surgery. The film premiered at the Cannes Film Festival.

Kilmer's career began in his youth, enrolling at the prestigious Juilliard School at just 17. He first gained attention in the 1984 comedy Top Secret! and solidified his fame in Top Gun as the unforgettable Iceman. He later portrayed rock star Jim Morrison in The Doors, and his portrayal of Doc Holliday in Tombstone further demonstrated his range.

Kilmer's career also included roles in Batman Forever and The Saint, though his later years were marked by challenging on-set relationships. Despite these challenges, his legacy in the film industry remains significant.

His death has sparked tributes from many in the film world, including actor Josh Brolin, who shared a heartfelt message on Instagram.

Source: BBC

BDST: 1248 HRS, APR 02, 2025
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