Best known for his role as Iceman in Top Gun (1986) and Batman in Batman Forever (1995), American actor Val Kilmer was reported to have passed on at the age of 65 years old last April 1 in Los Angeles.
His daughter, Mercedes, told The New York Times in a statement that her father died from pneumonia and further recalled how Kilmer had a history relating to his cause of death as he was diagnosed with throat cancer back in 2014 and later recovered.
In light of his death, the legendary actor received tributes from his other Hollywood friends and co-stars, such as Josh Brolin who took to his Instagram account and shared a photo of them together, writing off with a heartfelt caption wishing Kilmer a restful goodbye as he paid his respects.
Josh Gad, Matthew Modine and Richard Roeper had also left their own messages on their respective social media platforms, along with many others who praised the late actor’s skill, talent, and legacy left in the industry.
In a statement to The Hollywood Reporter, filmmaker Michael Mann voiced, “While working with Val on Heat I always marvelled at the range, the brilliant variability within the powerful current of Val’s possessing and expressing character. After so many years of Val battling disease and maintaining his spirit, this is tremendously sad news.”
The late actor’s diagnosis in 2014 had been discussed in his 2020 memoir, “I’m Your Huckleberry.” Kilmer underwent both radiotherapy and chemotherapy treatments, as well as a tracheostomy, which had been said to have damaged his vocal cords. He had been open about his journey, sharing his difficulties in battling his illness while trying to be present with the people around him.
Kilmer left behind iconic films that showcased his incredible versatility, with a diverse range in his filmography. He made his mark on the big screen as a leading man in iconic movies such as The Saint, Top Secret!, Willow, The Doors, and Real Genius, and also starred as a supporting character in Tombstone, Top Gun, Kiss Kiss Bang Bang, and Heat.
The actor is survived by his two children, Mercedes and Jack.
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