Los Angeles, California – Val Kilmer, the iconic actor known for his roles in films like “Top Gun” and “Batman Forever,” tragically passed away on April 1st at the age of 65. A recent death certificate revealed that Kilmer succumbed to pneumonia, with underlying causes including acute hypoxemic respiratory failure, chronic respiratory failure, and squamous cell carcinoma of the base of the tongue. Additional complications listed on the certificate were malnutrition and a tracheocutaneous fistula. Kilmer’s daughter, Mercedes, had previously shared that her father had lost his battle with pneumonia.
Kilmer’s health struggles first became public in 2014 when he experienced a drastic loss of voice, leading to the cancellation of a show. After being diagnosed with throat cancer in 2015, Kilmer underwent extensive treatment, including a tracheotomy, chemotherapy, and radiation. Despite these challenges, Kilmer maintained a positive outlook, as recounted in his 2020 memoir, “I’m Your Huckleberry.” In the memoir, Kilmer expressed the difficulties of accepting his cancer diagnosis but ultimately found the strength to fight for his life.
Throughout his career, Kilmer mesmerized audiences with his versatility, taking on memorable roles in a variety of genres. From his portrayal of Lt. Tom “Iceman” Kazansky in the blockbuster hit “Top Gun” to his captivating performance as Batman in “Batman Forever,” Kilmer left an indelible mark on the entertainment industry. Additionally, his portrayal of iconic figures like Jim Morrison in “The Doors” showcased his exceptional acting range and dedication to his craft.
Despite his health challenges in recent years, Kilmer continued to pursue his passion for acting. His final role in the upcoming film “Top Gun: Maverick” utilized artificial intelligence technology to recreate his voice due to the impact of his cancer treatment on his vocal cords. The legacy of Val Kilmer lives on through his contributions to cinema and the enduring impact he has had on audiences worldwide.