Val Kilmer, the versatile actor renowned for his iconic roles in films like “Top Gun,” “The Doors,” and “Batman Forever,” has passed away at the age of 65 due to pneumonia. His daughter, Mercedes Kilmer, confirmed that he died on April 1, 2025, in Los Angeles.
| Category | Details |
| Full Name | Val Edward Kilmer |
| Date of Birth | December 31, 1959 |
| Place of Birth | Los Angeles, California, USA |
| Age | 65 (at the time of passing) |
| Height | 5 feet 11 inches (180 cm) |
| Weight | Approx. 93 kg (205 lbs) |
| Nationality | American |
| Profession | Actor, Writer, Producer, Artist |
| Education | Juilliard School (Drama Division) |
| Father | Eugene Kilmer |
| Mother | Gladys Swanette |
| Siblings | Mark Kilmer, Wesley Kilmer (deceased) |
| Marital Status | Divorced |
| Ex-Wife | Joanne Whalley (m. 1988 – div. 1996) |
| Children | Mercedes Kilmer (Daughter), Jack Kilmer (Son) |
| Famous Movies | Top Gun, Batman Forever, The Doors, Tombstone |
| Net Worth | Approx. $25 million |
| Likes | Painting, Writing, Poetry |
| Dislikes | Media Intrusion, Controversies |
| Hobbies | Painting, Music, Traveling, Acting |
| Interests | Art, History, Spirituality |
| Social Media | Not very active in recent years |
| Habits | Used to be a perfectionist, passionate about roles |
| Favorite Actor | Marlon Brando, Robert Duvall |
| Favorite Food | Organic & healthy food |
| Favorite Music | Rock (especially The Doors) |
| Health Issues | Diagnosed with throat cancer in 2014, later recovered |
Early Life and Career
Born on December 31, 1959, in Los Angeles, California, Val Edward Kilmer demonstrated an early passion for acting. He became one of the youngest students admitted to the prestigious Juilliard School’s Drama Division at the age of 17. Kilmer’s career began on stage, but he soon transitioned to film, making his debut in the 1984 comedy “Top Secret!”
Breakthrough Roles
Kilmer’s portrayal of naval aviator Tom “Iceman” Kazansky in the 1986 blockbuster “Top Gun” catapulted him to fame. He continued to showcase his range by embodying rock legend Jim Morrison in Oliver Stone’s 1991 film “The Doors,” a performance that earned critical acclaim for its depth and authenticity. In 1995, Kilmer donned the iconic cape and cowl as Batman in “Batman Forever,” further cementing his status as a leading man in Hollywood.
Personal Life
Kilmer married British actress Joanne Whalley in 1988 after meeting on the set of “Willow.” The couple had two children, Mercedes and Jack, before divorcing in 1996. Throughout his life, Kilmer was known for his dedication to his craft and his complex personality, which often made headlines.
Health Challenges
In 2014, Kilmer was diagnosed with throat cancer. He underwent a tracheostomy and chemotherapy, which significantly affected his voice and breathing. Despite these challenges, Kilmer remained resilient, continuing to engage with his fans and the film community. His battle with cancer and its impact on his career were poignantly documented in the 2021 documentary “Val,” offering an intimate look into his life and struggles.
Legacy
Val Kilmer’s career spanned over four decades, during which he delivered a wide array of performances that left an indelible mark on cinema. From his early days on stage to his memorable film roles, Kilmer’s dedication to his craft and his ability to inhabit diverse characters made him a standout talent in Hollywood. His passing is a significant loss to the entertainment industry, but his legacy endures through the memorable characters he brought to life on screen.
