Val Kilmer, the iconic star known for his roles in “Top Gun” and “Maverick,” passed away on Tuesday in Los Angeles at the age of 65, as reported by various sources. Kilmer, who gained popularity for his performances in films like “Heat” and “Willow,” was both a prominent leading actor and a seasoned supporting player. In his later years, he spoke openly about ongoing health challenges that impacted both his work and his perspective on life. In his 2020 memoir, Kilmer shared how former partner Cher supported him through a cancer diagnosis and described the difficult effects it had on his body. USA TODAY has reached out to Kilmer’s representatives for further information.
Val Kilmer was transparent about his life, relationships, and iconic role in ‘Top Gun’: A look back at his memoir. The cause of Val Kilmer’s death was confirmed by his daughter, Mercedes Kilmer, who told The New York Times and The Associated Press that he passed away from pneumonia, a serious lung infection. Kilmer had battled throat cancer, which was diagnosed in 2014, according to Mercedes, and although he eventually recovered, his public struggle with the disease spanned many years. Throat cancer encompasses various conditions and can affect the vocal cords, resulting in permanent changes to a person’s voice, as was the case with Kilmer. The actor lost his voice permanently following a tracheotomy to treat the cancer but continued to work in acting and writing.
In the film “Top Gun: Maverick,” when Kilmer decided to reprise his beloved character “Ice Man,” director Joseph Kosinski confirmed to USA TODAY that, despite rumors of digital manipulation, Kilmer’s voice was predominantly used in the film.
Val Kilmer bravely shared his personal battle with cancer and the challenges he faced with his voice. His story serves as a reminder of the importance of perseverance and faith in difficult times.
Actor Val Kilmer, known for his keen character sensibilities and unshakeable sense of cool, attended the premiere of “MacGruber” at Landmark’s Sunshine Cinema in New York City on May 19, 2010. Director Michael Mann, who worked with Kilmer on 1995’s “Heat,” expressed his admiration for Val’s versatile talent and enduring spirit, following news of his passing. Co-star Danny Ramirez from “Top Gun: Maverick” shared fond memories of Kilmer, describing him as kind, joyous, and playful during their time together on set. This article discusses how pneumonia and throat cancer played a role in Val Kilmer’s passing.
