Kilmer’s death marked the end of a long journey in his career that left a lasting impact on Hollywood. He was born in 1959 in Los Angeles and was the youngest-ever student to enroll in Juilliard’s drama program. He entered the film industry with the 1984 comedy “Top Secret!” and quickly became a household name through hits like “Top Gun,” “The Doors,” “Tombstone,” and “Batman Forever.”
His acting performance as Jim Morrison in Oliver Stone’s “The Doors” (1991) was highly appreciated, and Kilmer himself did the singing. With his colorful presentation as Doc Holliday in “Tombstone” (1993), Kilmer displayed a clear breadth and depth.
Despite his success, Kilmer remained a troublesome figure within the Hollywood industry. His behavior on set earned him a difficult reputation, which created conflicts with directors, including Joel Schumacher, during the production of “Batman Forever.
Schumacher labeled him “childish and impossible to deal with,” leading to Kilmer’s inability to return for the sequel role.
2015 saw Kilmer receive a throat cancer diagnosis, which led to two tracheotomies that transformed his vocal sound into something unrecognizable. In both his 2020 memoir “I’m Your Huckleberry” and the 2021 documentary “Val,” he detailed his health struggles while offering an unvarnished look at his personal and professional journey.
Different types of people from all walks of life have come up to the entertainment world to pay their tributes. Tom Cruise, a co-star in the film “Top Gun,” said, “I think it would really be nice if we could have a moment together because this man loved movies, and he gave a lot to all of us. Just kind of think about all the wonderful times we had with him.”
Cher, an ex-girlfriend of Kilmer in the 1980s, remembers him as a “funny,” “brilliant,” and “brave” buddy. She noted that they had remained close friends over the years and helped each other through life’s ups and downs.
Kurt Russell, his “Tombstone” co-star, remembered their special friendship and disclosed that they traded symbolic presents after shooting: Kilmer presented Russell with an acre of land above Boothill Graveyard, and Russell provided Kilmer with a burial plot at that location.
Kilmer leaves behind his two children, Mercedes and Jack, with his wife and actress Joanne Whalley. His memory as a versatile and dedicated artist lives on to inspire fans and colleagues.
