Val Kilmer, the legendary, award-winning actor known for his seminal performance as Tom “Iceman” Kazansky in the 1986 classic “Top Gun,” has died. He passed Tuesday night after a long struggle with pneumonia. He was 63 years old. His daughter, actress Mercedes Kilmer, broke the heartbreaking news of his passing to The Associated Press. Though his passing hit home for many of us, especially his family and his supporters, the moment was magical.
Kilmer’s early life in the limelight was a time of great accomplishment tinged with tumult. After receiving treatment for throat cancer in 2015, he was left with health complications, including a tracheotomy. While the incision gave doctors direct access to the trachea, it soon became an opening for digestion. It had a major effect on his power of speech. Despite these obstacles, Kilmer returned to the screen, reprising his beloved role alongside Tom Cruise in the 2022 sequel “Top Gun: Maverick.”
His recent death from pneumonia serves as a reminder of the precariousness of health so many live with under the threat of catastrophic illness. Pneumonia, an infection of the lungs that can be viral or bacterial in origin, was the infection that finally killed Kilmer.
Tom Cruise, who appeared with Kilmer in both the original “Top Gun” and its sequel, shared an emotional tribute to his friend. He offered up this touching tribute on stage over the past weekend during a well-received address at CinemaCon in Las Vegas. Looking back on their work together, he did not hide his deep admiration for Kilmer’s talent and contributions to cinema.
“I can’t tell you how much I admire his work, how grateful and honored I was when he joined ‘Top Gun‘ and came back later for ‘Top Gun: Maverick’,” – Tom Cruise.
In closing, Cruise urged attendees to carry forth Kilmer’s love of film, and the impression he left on everyone around him.
“I think it would be really nice if we could just have a moment together, because he loved movies, and he gave a lot to all of us. Just kind of think about all the wonderful times that we had with him,” – Tom Cruise.
As fans and friends mourn his loss, Val Kilmer is remembered not only for his memorable performances but for his resilience in facing personal challenges. He is survived by his daughter Mercedes and son Jack.
