Val Kilmer, the iconic actor known for his roles in Top Gun, True Romance, Kiss Kiss Bang Bang, and his portrayal of Jim Morrison in The Doors, has sadly passed away at the age of 65. His daughter confirmed that he died on Tuesday in Los Angeles due to complications from pneumonia.
Kilmer had been battling health issues for years. In 2014, he was diagnosed with throat cancer, and the tracheotomy surgery he underwent affected his voice and acting career. In his 2020 memoir, I’m Your Huckleberry, and the Amazon Prime documentary Val, Kilmer opened up about his cancer diagnosis and how the treatments had damaged his vocal cords.
Paramount Pictures
“I obviously am sounding much worse than I feel,” Kilmer shared in the documentary. “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’s final acting appearance was in the 2022 sequel Top Gun: Maverick, where AI was used to assist with his voice. Tom Cruise, who starred alongside Kilmer in Top Gun, spoke emotionally about working with him again, saying, “I’ve known Val for decades, and for him to come back and play that character… he’s such a powerful actor that he instantly became that character again.”
Kilmer’s last Instagram post, shared on February 23, 2025, showcased one of his paintings, with the caption: “It’s got that late-night glow. Cool tones with a low burn, like when the campfire cools down but you’re still wide awake.” His final photo, posted shortly before his death, featured him alongside artist David Choe, where they were seen posing with a painting of Batman and a mask of the hero.
Tributes have poured in from all corners of the entertainment world. Director Michael Mann, who worked with Kilmer on Heat, expressed his admiration for the actor, saying, “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.”
Actor Josh Gad posted, “RIP Val Kilmer. Thank you for defining so many of the movies of my childhood. You truly were an icon.” Josh Brolin shared a heartfelt message on Instagram, saying, “See ya, pal. I’m going to miss you. You were a smart, challenging, brave, uber-creative firecracker. There’s not a lot left of those.”
Kilmer was married to actress Joanne Whalley from 1988 to 1996, and together they had two children. The two met while filming Willow.
Val Kilmer’s legacy will live on through his unforgettable performances, and he will be missed by his family, friends, and fans around the world. May he rest in peace.
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