Val Kilmer, ‘Top Gun’ and Batman star with an intense approach, dies at 65

Val Kilmer, the versatile actor known for many roles, has died. He was 65 years old.

Kilmer passed away Tuesday night in Los Angeles. His daughter, Mercedes Kilmer, confirmed the news via email to The Associated Press.

He died from pneumonia after battling throat cancer since 2014. This illness required two tracheotomies.

In the documentary “Val,” he reflected on his life and career. He said, “I have behaved poorly... I deny none of this and have no regrets.”

Kilmer was the youngest actor accepted into Juilliard at that time. He experienced fame's ups and downs more dramatically than most.

His breakthrough role came in 1984’s “Top Secret!” followed by “Real Genius” in 1985. He later showcased his comedy skills in films like “MacGruber” and “Kiss Kiss Bang Bang.”

In the early 1990s, Kilmer became a leading man. He starred in “Tombstone” alongside Kurt Russell and Bill Paxton. He also played Elvis’ ghost in “True Romance” and a bank robber in “Heat.”

Kilmer trained intensely for his roles through Method acting techniques. For "Tombstone," he filled his bed with ice to mimic dying from tuberculosis.

To portray Jim Morrison, he wore leather pants constantly and asked others to call him Jim Morrison.

This intensity led some to view him as difficult to work with. In his memoir, he acknowledged this but emphasized art over commerce.

One iconic role was Tom "Iceman" Kazansky in "Top Gun." Initially, Kilmer did not want the part but agreed after script changes were promised.

He reprised this role in the sequel "Top Gun: Maverick."

Kilmer's portrayal of Batman in "Batman Forever" received mixed reviews. Critics noted that he struggled with the suit's limitations during filming.

He described it as isolating and frustrating to perform while wearing it.

After Batman, Kilmer took on smaller projects like "The Saint" and "The Island of Dr. Moreau." The latter became infamous for its troubled production.

A documentary detailed challenges on set, including hurricanes and conflicts with director Richard Stanley.

Despite difficulties, some defended Kilmer's approach to acting as immersive rather than problematic.

After "The Island of Dr. Moreau," Kilmer appeared in smaller films like "Spartan" and "Wonderland." He also performed a one-man show called “Citizen Twain.”

Kilmer grew up in Chatsworth, Los Angeles, attending high school with Kevin Spacey and Mare Winningham. At 17, he became Juilliard’s youngest drama student ever admitted.

Tragedy struck when his younger brother Wesley died from an epileptic seizure shortly after Kilmer left for Juilliard.

Kilmer often remembered Wesley fondly and felt inspired by him throughout his life.

While at Juilliard, Kilmer co-wrote a play called “How It All Began.” He turned down a role in Coppola’s “The Outsiders” for another Broadway play instead.

He published two poetry books and received a Grammy nomination for spoken word album in 2012.

Kilmer was also a visual artist and practiced Christian Science throughout his life.

He dated Cher before marrying actress Joanne Whalley; they later divorced.

He is survived by their two children: Mercedes and Jack.