BREAKING: Val Kilmer, the Charismatic Star of Top Gun, Batman Forever and The Doors, Dies at 65 After a Long Health Battle, Daughter Mercedes Kilmer Says, ‘He Was My Hero, and His Spirit Will Live On Through His Art’

Val Kilmer, Iconic Actor Known for Top Gun and Batman Forever, Dies at 65

April 2, 2025 – Val Kilmer, the versatile and charismatic actor whose performances in films like Top Gun, The Doors, and Batman Forever made him a Hollywood legend, has passed away at the age of 65. His death marks the end of a remarkable career that spanned decades, leaving behind a legacy of unforgettable roles and a profound impact on the entertainment industry. The cause of death has not been officially disclosed, though Kilmer had been open about his battle with throat cancer in recent years.

Kilmer’s daughter, Mercedes Kilmer, confirmed the news in a heartfelt statement earlier today. “He was my hero, and his spirit will live on through his art,” she said. “Dad fought bravely through so much, and now he’s at peace with those he loved most. We’re devastated, but we take comfort knowing his work touched so many lives.” Mercedes, an actress and producer herself, had often spoken of her close bond with her father, particularly during his health struggles.

Born on December 31, 1959, in Los Angeles, California, Val Edward Kilmer rose to fame in the 1980s with a string of hits that showcased his range and intensity. His breakout role came in 1986 as Lt. Tom “Iceman” Kazansky in Top Gun, opposite Tom Cruise, cementing his status as a heartthrob and a serious talent. He followed this with a transformative portrayal of Jim Morrison in Oliver Stone’s 1991 biopic The Doors, a performance widely praised for its authenticity and depth.

Kilmer’s career was defined by his ability to shift seamlessly between blockbuster action films and nuanced character studies. He donned the cape as Bruce Wayne in 1995’s Batman Forever, brought wit and grit to the role of Doc Holliday in 1993’s Tombstone, and delivered a memorable turn as a troubled detective in Michael Mann’s 1995 crime epic Heat. His work in smaller films, like The Salton Sea (2002) and Kiss Kiss Bang Bang (2005), further demonstrated his versatility and willingness to take risks.

In recent years, Kilmer faced significant health challenges after being diagnosed with throat cancer in 2015. The illness required extensive treatment, including a tracheotomy that altered his voice, but he remained determined to continue his craft. His return to the screen as Iceman in 2022’s Top Gun: Maverick was a triumphant moment, met with emotional responses from fans and critics alike. Despite his reduced dialogue, Kilmer’s presence resonated deeply, a testament to his enduring screen charisma.

Beyond acting, Kilmer was an artist, writer, and devoted father to Mercedes and his son, Jack Kilmer, both of whom followed in his creative footsteps. He chronicled his life and career in his 2020 memoir, I’m Your Huckleberry, offering fans a candid look at his journey through fame, faith, and illness. His love for painting and poetry also endeared him to those who admired his multifaceted talents.

Tributes have poured in from across the industry. Tom Cruise, Kilmer’s Top Gun co-star, wrote on social media, “Val was a force of nature, a true original. Working with him was an honor, and I’ll miss him dearly.” Director Joel Schumacher, who helmed Batman Forever, once called Kilmer “one of the most dedicated actors I’ve ever known,” a sentiment echoed by many who collaborated with him.

Mercedes Kilmer’s statement also hinted at her father’s resilience. “He was a fighter to the end, and I’m proud to be his daughter,” she said. “His legacy is a gift to us all, and I’ll miss his laughter every day.” The family has requested privacy during this time, with plans for a memorial to be announced later.

Val Kilmer’s death closes a chapter on a career that defied easy categorization. From the cocky flyboy of Top Gun to the brooding rock star of The Doors, he brought an intensity and authenticity to every role he played. For fans, his work remains a timeless treasure, ensuring that his spirit, as Mercedes put it, will indeed live on.