Hollywood movie star Val Kilmer, dies at 65

Veteran Hollywood actor Val Kilmer, famous for his role as Iceman in “Top Gun,” has died at 65.

Kilmer passed away on Tuesday night in Los Angeles, surrounded by family and friends his daughter, Mercedes, confirmed.

Reports shown that the actor died of pneumonia after battling health challenges, including throat cancer diagnosed in 2014.

He underwent two tracheotomies during treatment but managed to recover and continue his career.

Kilmer rose to fame with “Top Gun” in 1986 and later played Batman in “Batman Forever.”

His intense acting style earned him praise and controversy, as he was known for deeply immersing himself in roles.

In “Tombstone,” he played Doc Holliday and reportedly slept on ice to replicate the character’s illness.

To portray Jim Morrison in “The Doors,” he wore leather pants daily and asked to be called Morrison on set.

Despite his dedication, Kilmer developed a reputation for being difficult, something he later acknowledged.

He defended himself by saying he prioritized art over commercial interests in Hollywood.

Born in Los Angeles, he attended Juilliard, becoming the youngest student admitted at the time.

He first gained attention in the 1984 comedy “Top Secret!” followed by “Real Genius” in 1985.

His career peaked in the 1990s with roles in “Tombstone,” “Heat,” and “True Romance.”

He later appeared in “MacGruber” and “Kiss Kiss Bang Bang,” showcasing his comedic side.

Kilmer’s memoir, “I’m Your Huckleberry,” reflected on his career and controversies in Hollywood.

Director Michael Mann described him as an actor with brilliant range and powerful character expressions.

Josh Brolin, a close friend, called Kilmer a fearless and creative performer in a tribute.

His turn as Batman in 1995 received mixed reviews, with critics citing limitations due to the costume.

He later revealed that the suit made movement difficult and isolated him from the cast.

After Batman, he starred in “The Saint” and “The Island of Dr. Moreau,” a troubled production.

Kilmer also pursued theater, notably starring in “Citizen Twain,” a one-man show about Mark Twain.

He published books of poetry and earned a Grammy nomination for his spoken word album.

His personal life included relationships with Cher and a marriage to actress Joanne Whalley.

He is survived by his two children, Mercedes and Jack, who followed his artistic legacy.

Despite challenges, Kilmer once said he had ‘no regrets’ and had experienced miracles in his life.

Hollywood mourns the loss of a talented and complex star who left a lasting legacy.

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