Val Kilmer Dies at 65: The Actor Who Fought Throat Cancer and Inspired Generations

Val Kilmer, the renowned actor known for his iconic roles in films like “Top Gun,” “Batman Forever,” and “The Doors,” passed away on Tuesday, April 2, 2025, at the age of 65. Val Kilmer dies as his daughter, Mercedes Kilmer, confirmed the news to various media outlets, including The New York Times and The Associated Press, stating that pneumonia was the cause of his death.

How Major Media, Celebrities, and Fans Reacted to Val Kilmer’s Death

Major media outlets such as Rolling Stone, Variety, The Hollywood Reporter, and Sky News have covered Kilmer’s death extensively. These publications highlighted his iconic roles and noted his battle with throat cancer, which he had been dealing with since 2014. The media also referenced the documentary “Val,” which provided insight into his life and career struggles.

Celebrities and industry figures have been paying heartfelt tributes to Val Kilmer following his passing. Josh Brolin remembered Kilmer as a “smart, challenging, brave, uber-creative firecracker,” expressing his admiration for Kilmer’s unique talent and personality. Brolin shared a photo of himself with Kilmer on Instagram, writing, “See ya, pal. I’m going to miss you. You were a smart, challenging, brave, uber-creative firecracker. There’s not a lot left of those. I hope to see you up there in the heavens when I eventually get there. Until then, amazing memories, lovely thoughts”.

Josh Gad also paid tribute to Kilmer, calling him a childhood hero and thanking him for defining many of the movies of his childhood. Gad posted a photo of Kilmer as Tom “Iceman” Kazansky from “Top Gun,” writing, “RIP Val Kilmer. Thank you for defining so many of the movies of my childhood. You truly were an icon”.

American writer Don Winslow described Kilmer as “a brilliant actor and a good man,” reflecting on his enduring impact on cinema and art. Winslow posted on social media, “Rest in peace VAL KILMER. A brilliant actor and a good man. He left behind an indelible mark on cinema and art”.

Industrial Light & Magic, the renowned visual effects studio, remembered Kilmer with a heartfelt tribute, highlighting his memorable roles as Madmartigan, Iceman, Doc Holliday, and Jim Morrison. They expressed deep sadness and offered condolences to his family, noting that he will be deeply missed.

Fans have also been paying tributes on social media, including on the comment section of Kilmer’s last Instagram post, where they shared messages of appreciation for his work and legacy. Many fans expressed gratitude for the impact his films had on their childhood and adulthood, celebrating his iconic roles in movies like “Tombstone,” “Batman Forever,” and “The Doors.

How Val Kilmer Fought Throat Cancer

Val Kilmer’s battle with throat cancer is a testament to his resilience and determination. Diagnosed in 2014, Kilmer initially kept his condition private, only publicly disclosing it in 2017. He underwent extensive treatments, including chemotherapy, radiation, and a tracheotomy, which permanently altered his voice. Despite these challenges, Kilmer remained optimistic, stating, “I feel a lot better than I sound, but I feel wonderful”.

Kilmer’s journey with cancer was documented in his memoir, “I’m Your Huckleberry,” and the 2021 documentary “Val,” which explores his life and the impact of his illness. The documentary features home videos from across his life, providing a personal insight into his struggles and triumphs.

In recent years, Kilmer has used AI technology to regain his voice, allowing him to express himself more effectively. His battle with cancer has inspired many, showcasing his courage and commitment to sharing his story despite the physical challenges he faced. Through his experiences, Kilmer has demonstrated an unwavering spirit, continuing to inspire fans and fellow artists alike.

For More Detailed Information You Can Also Read  Val Kilmer and Throat Cancer: How He Went Against, Survived and More by OncoDaily

You can also visit valkilmer.com, the official platform for Val Kilmer, which primarily showcases his artwork. It currently highlights a new gallery show featuring his original abstract paintings in New York, presented by Woodward Gallery. The show is part of a series titled Spirit World Biology.

From the OncoDaily Editorial Team