Val Kilmer has died. His daughter, Mercedes Kilmer, confirmed to the New York Times that the actor had passed away after battling pneumonia. He was 65.
Kilmer had battled throat cancer for several years in the last decade and practically lost his voice in the process. Despite the limitations, Kilmer had a cameo in “Top Gun: Maverick” (2022). He ended up beating cancer, but pneumonia took him away.
Kilmer, who had charm to spare, as well as broodingly guarded reserve, broke out in the 1984 comedy spoof “Top Secret!” and Martha Coolidge’s “Real Genius” before embarking on a star-making role as Iceman in Tony Scott’s “Top Gun” (1986).
So, what was Kilmer’s signature role? The performance that he'll always be remembered by? There are a few options to choose from, and all from the ‘90s; He stole the show as Doc Holiday in “Tombstone”; Chris Shiherlis in Michael Mann’s “Heat” is practically iconic; Jim Morrison in Oliver Stone’s “The Doors,” Bruce Wayne/Batman in Joel Schumacher’s “Batman Forever.”
Kilmer’s popularity peaked in the ‘90s; he was one of the best-paid actors, and his films grossed over $3.5 billion at the worldwide box office. Roger Ebert once quipped "If there is an award for the most unsung leading man of his generation, Kilmer should get it.”
What I got most out of Kilmer was his reluctance to coast on stardom, especially after his ‘90s peak. Instead, he opted to star in more adventurous projects. I loved his work in “The Salton Sea,” and “Kiss Kiss Bang Bang.” In a way, his legacy will be that of an artist in constant shape-shifting mode.
Rest in Peace, Iceman.