*Actor Val Kilmer has passed away at the age of 65 after a battle with pneumonia, his daughter Mercedes Kilmer confirmed, The New York Post reports.
Rising to fame in the 1980s and cementing his status as a leading man in the 1990s, Kilmer had a career marked by acclaim and controversy. His early performances in “Top Secret!” and “Real Genius” showcased his comedic talent before he skyrocketed to fame as Tom “Iceman” Kazansky in the 1986 blockbuster “Top Gun.” He reprised the role in the sequel “Top Gun: Maverick.” Throughout his career, Kilmer earned a reputation for his intense dedication to his craft.
“When certain people criticize me for being demanding, I think that’s a cover for something they didn’t do well. I think they’re trying to protect themselves,” he told the Orange County Register in 2003.
“I believe I’m challenging, not demanding, and I make no apologies for that,” he added.
His passion and commitment were particularly evident in Oliver Stone’s “The Doors,” in which he portrayed rock legend Jim Morrison.
Scroll to continue reading
View this post on Instagram
Other notable films included “Batman Forever,” “Tombstone,” and Michael Mann’s critically acclaimed 1995 crime thriller “Heat,” starring Al Pacino and Robert De Niro.
After news of Kilmer’s passing on Tuesday, colleagues and friends from the industry began mourning his loss.
“See ya, pal. I’m going to miss you,” wrote “No Country for Old Men” actor Josh Brolin on Instagram alongside a photo of the two. “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.”
In a statement shared with USA TODAY, Michael Mann said, “While working with Val on ‘Heat’ I always marveled 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.”
Despite professional conflicts and personal struggles, Kilmer’s impact on Hollywood remains undeniable. His performances leave behind a lasting cinematic legacy.
READ MORE FROM EURWEB.COM: Beloved Veteran R&B/Gospel Singer Keith Mitchell (After 7) Releases ‘He’s Alive’ | WATCH
Sign up for our Free daily newsletter HERE.
