Val Kilmer: Hollywood star dies of pneumonia at the age of 65

Val Kilmer: Hollywood star dies of pneumonia at the age of 65

Los Angeles, USA - Val Kilmer, the famous actor, died in Los Angeles on April 2, 2025 at the age of 65. The cause of death was pneumonia, as his daughter Mercedes Kilmer announced. This message not only shakes Hollywood, but also its numerous fans all over the world. Kilmer was known for his outstanding roles in films such as "Top Gun", "The Doors" and "Batman Forever" and was one of the best -paid actors of his time in the 1990s.

The last years of his life were shaped by serious health problems. Kilmer was diagnosed with larynx cancer in 2014, which he initially opened publicly, but later admitted in 2017. As a result of the disease, he lost the ability to speak naturally after a tracheotomy and chemotherapy. His state of health was cleared by the documentary "Val", which was published in 2021, in which he spoke about his illness and the restrictions that she brought.

return to the film world

Despite his health problems, Val Kilmer 2022 achieved a remarkable return to the screen with his role as Tom "Iceman" Kazansky in "Top Gun: Maverick". In this continuation of the 1986 classic, he spoke only a few sentences, but this scene was coordinated with his health restrictions. It is particularly noteworthy that a British software company helped him develop an artificial intelligence that created a copy of his voice. In an interview, Kilmer expressed his gratitude to Sonantic in 2021, which offered him this opportunity.

Although Kilmer has hardly played the main roles in large productions in the last ten years of his life, his heir remains in films such as "Tombstone" and "Heat". He not only leaves impressive filmography, but also two children, daughter Mercedes and son Jack, from his marriage to actress Joanne Whalley. Numerous tributes and condolences from colleagues and fans can be seen on social media after his death.

personal insights

Val Kilmer was a talented and sensitive person who described himself as "sensitive, clever and with the soul of a clown". His memoirs "I'm your Huckleberry", published in 2020, give an insight into his life and his career. He was also a believing Christian scientist, which shaped his view of conventional medical treatments.

The last chapter of Kilmer's life is characterized by fighting and challenges, but his contribution to the film industry and its unshakable spirit will be remembered forever. Plans for a public commemoration have not yet been announced, but the memories of his career and unforgettable roles will live on.

More about the background of his death and career can be found in the reports from Vol.at , Newsweek and Berliner Zeitung .