Los Angeles, California – Hollywood mourns the sudden passing of Val Kilmer, the beloved actor best known for his roles in iconic films like Top Gun and Tombstone. Kilmer, 65, succumbed to pneumonia on Tuesday, just hours before he was scheduled to appear at the Beverly Hills Film Festival.
Founder and president of the festival, Nino Simone, expressed shock and sadness over Kilmer’s untimely death. The actor was set to attend the West Coast premiere of “American Badass: A Michael Madsen Retrospective” in support of his friend, Michael Madsen.
Kilmer’s daughter, actress Mercedes Kilmer, confirmed the news of her father’s passing to The New York Times. Despite battling throat cancer since 2015, Kilmer remained active in the film industry, showcasing his talent in various roles over the years.
The Beverly Hills Film Festival kicked off with a world premiere of “Hello Beautiful,” a poignant drama starring Tricia Helfer. The film follows the journey of a successful model who receives a breast cancer diagnosis, shining a light on the challenges faced by those fighting the disease.
Throughout his illustrious career, Kilmer portrayed characters that left a lasting impact on audiences. From his portrayal of Batman to his role as Jim Morrison in The Doors, Kilmer’s versatility as an actor was undeniable. Colleagues like director Michael Mann paid tribute to Kilmer, reminiscing about their time working together on films like “Heat.”
Despite his health struggles, Kilmer remained resilient and dedicated to his craft. The release of the documentary “Val,” which premiered at Cannes in July 2021, provided a glimpse into the actor’s life and journey in the film industry.
As Hollywood remembers Val Kilmer’s contributions to cinema, the 25th Beverly Hills Film Festival will continue to celebrate filmmakers and artists until April 6. Kilmer’s legacy as a talented and multifaceted actor will undoubtedly endure in the hearts of his fans and colleagues alike.