Gambiaj.com – (New York, United States) – Val Kilmer, the acclaimed actor known for his roles in iconic films such as “Top Gun,” “Batman Forever,” and “Tombstone,” has passed away at the age of 65. His daughter, Mercedes Kilmer, confirmed his death to The New York Times and the Associated Press, attributing the cause to pneumonia. CNN reported that it had reached out to Kilmer’s representatives and family for further comment.

Kilmer had battled throat cancer since 2014, undergoing a tracheotomy that significantly altered his voice. While his illness led him to step away from acting, he made a triumphant return in 2022’s “Top Gun: Maverick,” where he reprised his role as Tom “Iceman” Kazansky. The film’s writers delicately wove Kilmer’s real-life health struggles into the storyline, adding emotional depth to his on-screen reunion with Tom Cruise’s character, Pete “Maverick” Mitchell.

His performance in the blockbuster sequel was widely praised. The Hollywood Reporter’s chief film critic, David Rooney, noted that Kilmer’s limited but poignant screen time provided “Top Gun: Maverick’s” most moving moment, as it reflected the actor’s real-life challenges and his lasting impact on Hollywood.

Kilmer’s career was both illustrious and financially successful. According to Comscore, his films generated nearly $2 billion at the global box office. Born and raised in California’s San Fernando Valley, he was the youngest student ever admitted to Juilliard’s drama program at the time. His breakthrough came with the 1984 comedy “Top Secret!” before his star-making role in 1986’s “Top Gun.”

Throughout the 1990s, Kilmer cemented his reputation as a versatile leading man. He took on diverse roles, playing Batman in “Batman Forever” (1995), the legendary gunslinger Doc Holliday in “Tombstone” (1993), rock icon Jim Morrison in “The Doors” (1991), and a skilled bank robber in Michael Mann’s “Heat” (1995). Despite his success, his career was often marked by unexpected choices and industry challenges. He turned down a sequel to “Batman Forever,” starred in the troubled production of “The Island of Dr. Moreau,” and pursued audition opportunities for projects such as “Goodfellas” and “Full Metal Jacket” that ultimately did not materialize.

Kilmer offered an intimate perspective on his life in the 2021 documentary “Val,” which included decades of personal footage, behind-the-scenes moments, and narration by his son, Jack Kilmer, due to his own vocal limitations. In the documentary, Kilmer reflected on his career, his struggles, and his enduring gratitude for the life he led.

Kilmer is survived by his two children, Jack and Mercedes, whom he shared with his ex-wife, actress Joanne Whalley. Both have followed in their father’s footsteps, pursuing acting careers and collaborating with him on projects, including the 2020 film “Paydirt” and the Disney+ series “Willow.”

Despite his health challenges, Kilmer maintained a sense of humor and appreciation for his journey. In “Val,” he recalled how fans frequently asked for “Top Gun” autographs with the famous “You can be my wingman” quote. “I feel grateful,” he said in the documentary, summing up a career and life that left an indelible mark on Hollywood and his audience worldwide.

Source: CNN