Val Kilmer, the veteran actor who performed iconic roles in timeless films such as "Top Gun," "The Doors," and "Batman Forever," passed away on April 1 at age 65 in Los Angeles.He died due to pneumonia, as revealed by his daughter, Mercedes Kilmer.
December 31, 1959, was the day of birth in Los Angeles for Kilmer, who showed a passion for acting from an early age and later studied at the elite Juilliard School. Kilmer made his film debut in the 1984 comedy "Top Secret!" but it was his performance as Lieutenant Tom "Iceman" Kazansky in the 1986 blockbuster "Top Gun" that catapulted him to fame. Kilmer's portrayal of the smooth and self-assured naval aviator became the defining moment in his career.
In 1991, Kilmer took on the challenging role of Jim Morrison in Oliver Stone's biopic "The Doors." His intense preparation and eerie identification with the iconic rock vocalist earned him a critical success and reflected his commitment to the craft. Kilmer again proved himself versatile by acting out iconic characters like Doc Holliday in "Tombstone" (1993) and the Caped Crusader in "Batman Forever" (1995).
For all his professional success, Kilmer's career sometimes found itself shrouded by on-set rumor of on-film feuding with directors and co-stars. Still, he persisted in commitment to his character, with many peers acknowledging the man's acting talent and working ethic.
In 2014, Kilmer was diagnosed with throat cancer, which prompted a tracheotomy that had a profound impact on his voice. He received chemotherapy and radiation therapy, and by 2017, he reported he was cancer-free. The residual effects of his illness, however, presented problems both personally and professionally.
Kilmer's own life involved a marriage to actress Joanne Whalley between 1988 and 1996, with whom he had two children, Mercedes and Jack. Both children have followed in their parents' footsteps and sought a career in the entertainment industry.
Later in life, Kilmer explored other artistic pursuits, including writing and painting. His memoir, "I'm Your Huckleberry," which was published in 2020, was a introspective look at his career and life that would appeal to both fans and critics.
