Val Kilmer’s Daughter Reveals His Cause of Death

Val Kilmer, the iconic actor whose unforgettable performances shaped generations of moviegoers, has passed away at the age of 65. Known for his legendary roles in Top Gun and Batman Forever, Kilmer died on Tuesday, April 1st, from complications related to pneumonia, his daughter Mercedes Kilmer confirmed.

A Career Full of Iconic Moments

Kilmer rose to international fame with his role as Tom “Iceman” Kazanski in the 1986 blockbuster Top Gun, starring alongside Tom Cruise. His cool, confident portrayal quickly cemented him as one of Hollywood’s most magnetic stars. He later reprised the role in Top Gun: Maverick (2022), which would be his final film appearance.

The return of Kilmer to the big screen was an emotional one — not just for fans, but for his longtime co-star, Tom Cruise. During a 2023 interview with Jimmy Kimmel, Cruise revealed how deeply the reunion affected him:

“I was crying. I got emotional. He’s such a brilliant actor, I love his work.”
– Tom Cruise

Kilmer’s filmography spanned a wide range of genres and unforgettable characters. Some of his most acclaimed roles include:

• Doc Holliday in Tombstone (1993)

• Batman/Bruce Wayne in Batman Forever (1995)

• The Ghost and the Darkness (1996)

• The Saint (1997)

• The Prince of Egypt (1998) – voice role

• Alexander (2004)

• Kiss Kiss Bang Bang (2005)

• The Snowman (2017)

His ability to fully inhabit any role — from historical figures to action heroes to complex antiheroes — earned him respect from fans and peers alike.

A Private Battle Made Public

In 2015, Kilmer was diagnosed with throat cancer. At first, he denied the diagnosis publicly, despite being rushed to the hospital for a suspected tumor. Eventually, he confirmed his illness and opened up about his experience in the deeply personal 2021 documentary Val, which included decades of personal footage and reflections on his career and health.

His treatment included chemotherapy and two tracheotomies, which damaged his vocal cords and left him with a significantly altered voice. Yet even through immense physical hardship, Kilmer remained resilient, passionate, and committed to telling his story.

Val — A Life in His Own Words

The documentary Val gave fans an intimate glimpse into the actor’s life, artistry, and quiet strength. With narration from his son Jack Kilmer, and rare behind-the-scenes footage, the film became a celebration of not just Val’s career, but the man behind the roles — vulnerable, creative, and fearless.

(Watch the trailer for “Val” at the bottom of this article.)

Survived by Family and Forever Remembered

Val Kilmer is survived by his children — daughter Mercedes Kilmer and son Jack Kilmer — both of whom have followed in his artistic footsteps. Mercedes confirmed the news of his passing, honoring him as a devoted father and an incredible soul who touched lives around the world.

 A Final Goodbye to a Hollywood Legend

Val Kilmer’s passing is not just the loss of an actor — it’s the end of an era. His talent, charm, and fearless pursuit of artistic truth made him a force in Hollywood for over four decades. He was more than a screen presence; he was a symbol of complexity, strength, and authenticity.

As fans, we remember the roles, the quotes, the unforgettable scenes — but also the man who fought for his voice, literally and figuratively, until the very end.

Rest in peace, Val Kilmer. Your legacy will live on through the characters you brought to life and the hearts you touched.