Hollywood star Val Kilmer died of pneumonia at the age of 65

Hollywood star Val Kilmer died of pneumonia at the age of 65

Los Angeles, USA - Hollywood has lost one of his most bright stars. Val Kilmer, who was known for his iconic roles in films such as "Top Gun", "The Doors" and "Batman Forever", died at the age of 65. The death of the actor was reported to the "New York Times" by his daughter, Mercedes Kilmer. He died of the consequences of pneumonia and was in Los Angeles at the time of his death, surrounded by friends and family.

Val Edward Kilmer was born on December 31, 1959 in Los Angeles. His career began in the theater, where he performed in productions such as "Orestes" and "The Wood Demon" and studied at the Juilliard School. He made his debut in 1984 in the spy comedy "Top Secret!", Which laid the foundation for his later film career. In 1986 he gained worldwide awareness through the role of Tom "Iceman" Kazansky in "Top Gun", which recorded a total of $ 344 million.

a life in the film

Kilmer was one of the top earners of Hollywood in the 80s and 90s. His best -known films include "Willow" (1988), "True Romance" (1993), "Tombstone" (1993) and "Batman Forever" (1995). In particular, his acting representation of Jim Morrison in the biopic "The Doors" (1991) brought him critical recognition, although there were also tensions with director Oliver Stone about the presentation of drug abuse. In recent years, Kilmer has recovered from leading roles and focused on supporting roles, theater work and television.

The legacy of Val Kilmer was also shaped by his return to "Top Gun: Maverick" (2022), where he again appeared as an Iceman. This role was particularly moving because his figure was ill with cancer, which reflected on what Kilmer had gone through. In an interview from 2020, Kilmer expressed that he missed his old voice, which was alleviated in the continuation by the use of artificial intelligence to help him better communicate.

battles and reviews

In 2015, larynx cancer was diagnosed at Kilmer, which led to chemotherapy and an air pocket cut. These health challenges shaped him, but he could not be discouraged. A documentary about his life, with the title "Val", celebrated its premiere in Cannes in 2021 and documented his journey and his fights in life as well as in acting.

Kilmer's personal life story was as strong as his public persona. He was married and had two children, Mercedes and Jack. In the past, he had prominent relationships with stars like Cher, Michelle Pfeiffer and Daryl Hannah. Kilmer was also a member of the religious community "Christian Science".

The loss of Val Kilmer leaves a large gap in the world of the film. He was not only a talented actor, but also an inspiring example of perseverance. His inheritance will live on through the unforgettable characters he brought to the screen. As the "Kleine Zeitung" reports, it is missed by fans and colleagues alike.