Hollywood has lost one of its most enigmatic stars—Val Kilmer, the legendary actor known for Top Gun, The Doors, Tombstone, and Batman Forever, has passed away at 65. The cause? Pneumonia, as confirmed by his daughter, Mercedes Kilmer.
A Juilliard-trained talent with a reputation for being as intense off-screen as he was on it, Kilmer ruled the ’90s with his magnetic presence. He soared to fame as Iceman in Top Gun (1986), later reprising the role in Top Gun: Maverick (2022). But his chameleon-like ability truly shone in The Doors (1991), where he transformed into rock god Jim Morrison—singing every note himself.
Kilmer’s time as Batman in Batman Forever (1995) was short-lived, but his impact was undeniable. However, behind the scenes, his perfectionist streak made him a Hollywood bad boy, with Batman director Joel Schumacher calling him “the most psychologically troubled human being” he’d ever worked with.
Despite career setbacks, Kilmer remained a legend. His legacy? Unforgettable roles, a fearless approach to acting, and a mystique few could match. Hollywood will never have another Val Kilmer—because, let’s face it, there was only ever one.
By
