Val Kilmer, the multitalented actor whose performances in cult classic movies like ‘Top Gun’, ‘Batman Forever’, and ‘The Doors’ are etched in movie memory, died aged 65 following complications from pneumonia.

His daughter Mercedes Kilmer confirmed his death on April 1, 2025. Kilmer’s six-decade acting career left a lasting impression on Hollywood with a string of unforgettable performances.

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Born on December 31, 1959, in Los Angeles, California, Val Kilmer started his acting career on stage before moving to film. He initially made a name for himself with his appearance in the comedy ‘Top Secret!’, where he demonstrated his comedic timing and musical abilities as an American rock star embroiled in Cold War intrigue.

Here are some of the top movies of Val Kilmer.

Top Gun (1986)

Kilmer’s performance as Lieutenant Tom ‘Iceman’ Kazansky in the 1986 blockbuster ‘Top Gun’ propelled him to global stardom. As Maverick’s cool and confident adversary, Kilmer’s acting brought depth to the film’s dynamic, with ‘Iceman’ becoming a favorite among fans. Decades later, he reprised the role in the sequel ‘Top Gun: Maverick’ (2022), giving a heart-wrenching performance that gained popularity among audiences.

The Doors (1991)

In Oliver Stone’s biographical drama ‘The Doors,’ Kilmer portrayed the difficult role of Jim Morrison, the brooding lead vocalist of the legendary rock band. His fully realized performance, channeling Morrison’s charm and intensity, was widely praised by critics and showed Kilmer’s commitment to portraying actual persons in their real-life aspects.

Tombstone (1993)

Kilmer’s rendition of Doc Holliday in the Western movie ‘Tombstone’ is still one of his most renowned performances. His version of the irascible and consumptive gunslinger brought an extra dimension of depth and complexity to the character.

Batman Forever (1995)

Taking up the mantle of the Caped Crusader, Kilmer portrayed Bruce Wayne/Batman in Joel Schumacher’s ‘Batman Forever.’ His take injected a brooding intensity into the character, striking a balance between the duality of the billionaire playboy and the mask-wearing vigilante. Although the film itself had mixed reviews, Kilmer’s work came to highlight for introducing a new depth to the superhero legend.

Heat (1995)

In Michael Mann’s ‘Heat,’ a crime thriller, Kilmer was Chris Shiherlis, a talented thief caught up in an elaborate heist. Co-starring with acting giants Al Pacino and Robert De Niro, Kilmer was more than a match for them, giving a performance that provided emotional resonance to the supporting cast.

The Saint (1997)

Kilmer assumed the character of master thief and impersonator Simon Templar in ‘The Saint.’ His ability to play around with different characters and accents exemplified his range as an actor, and so the film serves as a welcome addition to his filmography.

Kiss Kiss Bang Bang (2005)

In the black comedy crime movie ‘Kiss Kiss Bang Bang,’ Kilmer played Gay Perry, a wisecracking private eye with a multifaceted personality. His performance received acclaim for its humor and chemistry with co-star Robert Downey Jr., a career revival.

In 2015, Kilmer was diagnosed with throat cancer, which caused serious health issues, including losing his natural voice. He went on to remain in the industry despite these challenges, using technology to help him speak. His durability came out in the documentary ‘Val’ in 2021 that gave a glimpse into his life and career in a very personal and intimate way.

Also Read: Val Kilmer, ‘Top Gun’ and ‘Batman’ star, dies at 65