In a sorrowful turn of events, Hollywood mourns the death of a true American icon whose career embodied boldness and independent spirit, Val Kilmer, at age 65.
See the tweet below.
The actor, known for iconic roles in patriotic films like “Top Gun” and timeless classics like “Tombstone,” passed away at 65 after a courageous battle with health issues.
Kilmer died in Los Angeles from pneumonia complications, following a long struggle with throat cancer that was first diagnosed in 2014.
Despite his health challenges, the actor remained resilient until the end, surrounded by family and friends who honored his tremendous contributions to American culture.
His passing represents another loss of Hollywood’s old guard from a time before the industry became consumed by political agendas.
Born into a Christian Scientist family, Kilmer’s faith remained an important part of his identity throughout his life.
His exceptional talent was recognized early—at just 17, he became the youngest person ever accepted to the prestigious Juilliard School, launching a career that would make him one of America’s most recognizable actors.
His breakthrough arrived with comedic roles in “Top Secret!” (1984) and “Real Genius” (1985).
Still, his portrayal of Iceman in the patriotic military classic “Top Gun” cemented his place in Hollywood.
Despite initial reluctance to take the role, it became one of his most beloved performances.
Kilmer’s career peaked in the early 1990s. His portrayal of gunslinger Doc Holliday in “Tombstone” remains legendary, while his performances in “True Romance” and “Heat” displayed his exceptional range.
Moreover, the actor’s commitment to artistic integrity sometimes labeled him “difficult” in an industry increasingly focused on conformity.
A 1996 Entertainment Weekly cover story called him “The Man Hollywood Loves to Hate”—perhaps because he refused to compromise his principles or artistic vision to fit the industry’s growing groupthink mentality.
Beyond acting, Kilmer was a Renaissance man who published poetry, created visual art, and was nominated for a Grammy—achievements that demonstrated his belief in American innovation and individual expression.
He was once married to actress Joanne Whalley, with whom he had two children, Mercedes and Jack.
“While working with Val on ‘Heat’ I always marvelled at the range, the brilliant variability within the powerful current of Val’s possessing and expressing character.” – Michael Mann, director of ‘Heat’ movie said.
“After so many years of Val battling disease and maintaining his spirit, this is tremendously sad news,” he added.
In 2021, the documentary “Val” provided fans with an intimate look at his life, including his battle with throat cancer that severely affected his speaking ability.
Contrary to many modern celebrities who hide their struggles, Kilmer faced his challenges with transparency and courage.
His return as Iceman in 2022’s “Top Gun: Maverick” was a testament to his determination and love for his craft, even as Hollywood continued its shift away from the values he represented.
Kilmer leaves behind a legacy that represents an era when Hollywood still produced unapologetically American stories that celebrated the nation’s values and heroes.
For patriots and traditionalists, his films remain timeless reminders of what the entertainment industry once was—and what many hope it could be again.
#BREAKINGNEWS: Val Kilmer, the 'Top Gun' and Batman star with an intense approach, has died at 65. Kilmer died Tuesday night in Los Angeles, surrounded by family and friends, his daughter, Mercedes Kilmer, said. The latest details tonight at 11 from ABC7. https://t.co/YzDIH59m1K pic.twitter.com/435NGk1x3t
— ABC7 Eyewitness News (@ABC7) April 2, 2025
