Val Kilmer, the versatile Hollywood actor known for his captivating performances and elusive personality, passed away on Tuesday at the age of 65 in Los Angeles. The cause of death was pneumonia, according to his daughter, Mercedes Kilmer, as stated in The New York Times. Kilmer’s career spanned decades, and his impact on the film industry was significant. He is best remembered for his portrayals of iconic characters such as Jim Morrison in The Doors (1991) and Batman in Batman Forever (1995), but his extensive range also allowed him to shine in a variety of supporting roles, from a cool rival in Top Gun (1986) to the urbane Doc Holliday in Tombstone (1993).
Kilmer's career took off in the 1980s with his debut in the slapstick spy-comedy Top Secret! (1984), but it was his performance as Morrison that solidified his status as a leading man. His ability to embody the enigmatic rock icon in Oliver Stone's biopic made a lasting impression, showcasing Kilmer's commitment to transforming into the characters he played. However, he was not limited to leading roles. He made his mark in films like True Romance (1993), Heat (1995), and The Saint (1997), often shining alongside Hollywood heavyweights such as Robert De Niro and Al Pacino. While his portrayal of Batman in Batman Forever was met with mixed reviews, Kilmer’s career continued to flourish with notable appearances in films such as The Ghost and the Darkness (1996) and Pollock (2000).
Off-screen, Kilmer’s unpredictable nature and strong-willed personality often left a mark on those he worked with. Directors and actors alike noted Kilmer’s distinct acting style, with David Mamet praising his ability to make every line feel like an improvisation. Despite his early reputation for being difficult to work with, many, including Robert Downey Jr., grew to appreciate his eccentricity and talent. Kilmer's personal life was marked by tragedy as well, particularly the loss of his brother Wesley, which haunted him throughout his life and influenced his performances, including in The Salton Sea (2002), a film driven by guilt and redemption.
Val Kilmer’s career was not only defined by his work in film but also by his personal pursuits and interests. He had a deep fascination with Mark Twain, which led him to perform a one-man play, Citizen Twain, and to appear as Twain in a 2014 film. Kilmer also had a long-running interest in Christian Science, which influenced both his personal life and his professional projects. In recent years, Kilmer was the subject of Val (2021), a documentary that offered a deeply personal look into his life, featuring archival footage and reflections from his children. Kilmer’s legacy as an actor, artist, and individual remains undeniable, and he will be remembered for his complex, charismatic, and transformative contributions to cinema.
