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.

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

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 the 1984 film “Top Secret!” This was followed by the comedy “Real Genius” in 1985. He later showcased his comedic talent in films like “MacGruber” and “Kiss Kiss Bang Bang.”

In the early 1990s, Kilmer became a leading man. He starred alongside Kurt Russell and Bill Paxton in "Tombstone." 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. While playing Jim Morrison, he wore leather pants constantly and asked everyone to call him Jim.

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

One of his iconic roles 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 "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 how isolating it felt while wearing the suit: “You can barely move... It was frustrating until I realized my role was just to show up.”

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 about "Dr. Moreau" detailed chaotic events on set, including hurricanes and conflicts between Kilmer and director Richard Stanley.

In 1996, Entertainment Weekly labeled him as “The Man Hollywood Loves to Hate.” Some directors found him challenging to work with due to his intense approach.

However, others defended him as an artist who needed immersion into characters. Director D.J. Caruso noted that Kilmer enjoyed discussing scenes deeply.

Following these films, Kilmer appeared in smaller roles such as David Mamet’s thriller “Spartan.” He also starred as John Holmes in 2003’s “Wonderland.”

Kilmer performed a one-man stage show called “Citizen Twain.” In it, he explored Mark Twain's depth and humor while addressing social issues.

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

Tragically, shortly after starting at Juilliard, his younger brother Wesley died from an epileptic seizure at age 15.

“I miss him... I’m still inspired by him,” Kilmer said about Wesley’s memory.

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

He published two poetry books and received a Grammy nomination for spoken word album in 2012 for "The Mark of Zorro." Additionally, he was a visual artist and lifelong Christian Scientist.

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

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