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‘Batman’ Star Val Kilmer Passes Away — Details Revealed Naomi Wanjala By Naomi Wanjala Apr 02, 2025 01:38 A.M. Link Email flipboard-icon X FacebookShare He once wore the cape of a hero and stepped into the shoes of a rock icon. Now, after years away from the spotlight, the actor whose roles stirred generations has passed away. Advertisement Val Kilmer, the versatile actor known for his roles as Jim Morrison and Batman, has passed away. Val died on Tuesday, April 1, in Los Angeles, at the age of 65. Val Kilmer during an interview in Munich in 1992 | Source: Getty Images Val Kilmer during an interview in Munich in 1992 | Source: Getty Images According to his daughter, Mercedes Kilmer, the cause of his death was pneumonia. She noted that Val had previously battled throat cancer, diagnosed in 2014, and had since recovered. Val was born on December 31, 1959, in Los Angeles. He grew up in the Chatsworth neighborhood, tucked into the city’s far northwest corner. Val rose to stardom in the 1990s, becoming a leading man with a range that extended beyond blockbuster roles. Among his most iconic appearances was as the caped crusader in “Batman Forever” (1995). Advertisement Val and Mercedes Kilmer at the 2019 Annual Thespians Go Hollywood Gala on November 18, 2019 | Source: Getty Images Val and Mercedes Kilmer at the 2019 Annual Thespians Go Hollywood Gala on November 18, 2019 | Source: Getty Images In the film, he faces off against villains Two-Face, played by Tommy Lee Jones, and the Riddler, portrayed by Jim Carrey. While the film achieved commercial success, neither Val’s performance nor the movie itself were universally embraced as high points in the Batman legacy. His off-screen life took a dramatic turn in the years that followed. In 2017, during a rare interview at his Brentwood art studio, Val sat beside his two children, Mercedes and Jack — both born during his marriage to British actress Joanne Whalley. Val Kilmer at Simply Shakespeare’s Live Read of “The Merchant Of Venice” in 2019 | Source: Getty Images Val Kilmer at Simply Shakespeare’s Live Read of “The Merchant Of Venice” in 2019 | Source: Getty Images Advertisement At the time, he was in the midst of a grueling fight with throat cancer. A tracheotomy had left his voice a harsh rasp, and his breathing labored. The struggle was made even more difficult by a personal crisis. Around the time of his diagnosis, Mercedes was struck by a car in a serious accident. “We were in the same hospital at the same time,” she later recalled. Jack, watching both his sister and father endure medical recoveries, remembered the moment vividly. “I was just, you know, miserable, distraught, sitting next to these two.” Mercedes Kilmer and Jack Kilmer attend the Premiere of Amazon Studios’ “VAL” at DGA Theater Complex on August 03, 2021 in Los Angeles, California. | Source: Getty Images Mercedes Kilmer and Jack Kilmer attend the Premiere of Amazon Studios’ “VAL” at DGA Theater Complex on August 03, 2021 in Los Angeles, California. | Source: Getty Images Despite the hardship, Val leaned on faith. As a Christian Scientist, he found spiritual grounding through his illness, though he also underwent chemotherapy in his battle against the disease. Through it all, his relationship with his children deepened. Advertisement By 2020, Val made a quiet but determined return to the screen. He starred in “Paydirt,” an indie action film in which he portrayed a sheriff — a role that mirrored his real-life condition. His character, like him, had a speech disability. “It’s pretty historic to have a lead with a speech disability,” Mercedes, who co-starred in the film, told People at the time. She called the experience a revelation, both professionally and personally. “My dad’s able to very artfully circumvent the limitations of his speech,” she said. Mercedes explained that watching how he communicated physically had taught her a great deal about acting and had expanded her understanding of what acting could be. Mercedes Kilmer at “Val” photocall during the 74th annual Cannes Film Festival on July 7, 2021, in France. | Source: Getty Images Mercedes Kilmer at “Val” photocall during the 74th annual Cannes Film Festival on July 7, 2021, in France. | Source: Getty Images Advertisement Val, never one to shy away from change, took the shift in stride. “The business changes every six months,” he joked. “The Batmobile has become much smarter since then.” The project became more than a film, it became a symbol of resilience. “The health challenges have been just that, challenging,” Mercedes said, “but so many good things have come out of it.” Val echoed the sentiment. “They really have done everything to make my health as usual,” he said. Advertisement In another joint interview with Mercedes, when Val was asked how he was doing, he replied in a coarse and strenuous voice, “I’m doing great, I feel a lot better than I sound.” Though his voice was altered, his creative spirit remained intact right to the end. His final public moments reflected the artist he had always been. On March 23, Val posted an image of his latest artwork, a glowing visual piece accompanied by the caption, “It’s got that late-night glow. Cool tones with a low burn, like when the camp fire cools down but you’re still wide awake.” Advertisement In June 2019, Val took to social media to reflect on his lifelong mission as an artist. He shared a series of photos alongside a message expressing his belief in the power of art to educate and inspire. Advertisement For him, acting was never just about performance; it was about finding truth in every character and sharing that truth with audiences. He spoke about bringing that same passion to his work with the TwainMania Foundation, an initiative aimed at promoting empathy, literacy, and tolerance through education. Val, along with other collaborators, had been working to develop a curriculum rooted in those values. He hoped the program could take root in Los Angeles and eventually expand nationwide. Advertisement The post also served as a thank-you to friends and supporters who had stood by him and the cause. He encouraged others to join the effort, emphasizing the potential of education to shape a more compassionate future. Throughout his career, Val built a diverse filmography that showcased his range and charisma. Early on, his striking looks and commanding presence often landed him roles with a rock-star edge — including his debut in “Top Secret!” (1984), where he played a singing American caught up in Cold War chaos. Val Kilmer in 1988 in Los Angeles, California | Photo: Getty Images Val Kilmer in 1988 in Los Angeles, California | Photo: Getty Images In “The Doors” (1991), Val delivered one of his most memorable performances, fully inhabiting the role of Jim Morrison with a hypnotic intensity. Just two years later, he made a brief but memorable appearance in “True Romance.” Advertisement He took on leading roles in films like “Thunderheart “(1992), portraying a young FBI agent on a Native American reservation, and “The Saint “(1997), where he played a master of disguise entangled with the Russian mob. Val Kilmer during a photoshoot in Los Angeles in 1986. | Source: Getty Images Val Kilmer during a photoshoot in Los Angeles in 1986. | Source: Getty Images In “Tombstone” (1993), Val stood out, earning praise alongside a cast that included Kurt Russell and Sam Elliott. He joined forces with Robert De Niro and Al Pacino in the crime thriller “Heat” (1995), playing a member of a high-stakes robbery crew. Other notable appearances included “The Ghost and the Darkness” (1996) and “Pollock” (2000). In Oliver Stone’s “Alexander” (2004), Val took on the role of Philip of Macedon, father to the future conqueror. Val Kilmer at the United Nations headquarters on July 20, 2019 | Source: Getty Images Val Kilmer at the United Nations headquarters on July 20, 2019 | Source: Getty Images Advertisement Throughout his film journey, Val became known, not just for his roles, but for his ability to disappear into them — unpredictable, committed, and always compelling. His career was marked by bold choices and layered performances. His dedication to craft, even in the face of personal trials, left a lasting imprint on film. He leaves behind a legacy of fearless artistry and unforgettable performances. Our condolences go to his family. Rest in peace, Val Kilmer. Link Email flipboard-icon X FacebookShare Advertisement Advertisement info The information in this article is not intended or implied to be a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis or treatment. All content, including text, and images contained on news.AmoMama.com, or available through news.AmoMama.com is for general information purposes only. news.AmoMama.com does not take responsibility for any action taken as a result of reading this article. Before undertaking any course of treatment please consult with your healthcare provider. Related posts He Was an ’80s Heartthrob Who Survived a Near-Fatal Car Accident & Battled Cancer – His Story & Pics January 30, 2025 He Was A Hollywood Star In The ’80s, But Then Survived A Terrible Road Accident & Underwent Facial Surgery – His Pics At 80 December 13, 2024 This ’80s Teen Star Left Hollywood for a While and Moved to a Farm to Battle Cancer — Her Photos at 58 March 20, 2025 ‘What Happened to Him?’: Users Stunned by Tom Cruise’s Appearance as He Receives US Navy’s Highest Civilian Honor – Photos December 18, 2024 Richard Chamberlain Hid His Partner for 27 Years – Their Story & Rare Photos of the Couple March 31, 2025 This ’70s Star Survived a Rare Form of Cancer & Left the Glamour of Hollywood — What Her Life Looks Like Now March 27, 2025 Comedy Legend Rick Moranis Left Hollywood After His Wife’s Death — Photo from His Recent Rare Appearance December 12, 2024 Jeff Baena, Writer-Director and Aubrey Plaza’s Husband, Dead at 47 — Cause of Death Revealed January 06, 2025 This Star, Who Gave Birth After Surviving Breast Cancer, Turns 75 – See Her Transformation January 29, 2025 One Thing Gene Hackman Did with His Wife Betsy Arakawa at Their Home Before They Were Both Found Dead There March 11, 2025 Doris Day’s Only Grandson Was Not Allowed to See Her & Learned about Her Death from Social Media: Meet Him Now February 24, 2025 Aubrey Plaza Speaks Out Following the Death of Her Husband Jeff Baena at 47 — Details January 07, 2025 This 76-Year-Old Beauty Stuns After Battling Cancer and Losing Her Husband – Her Transformation in Photos January 24, 2025 You Won’t Believe Who the Parents of These 6 Celebrity Kids Are — Their Names and Photos February 24, 2025

- by Daniel S. Jackson

He once wore the cape of a hero and stepped into the shoes of a rock icon. Now, after years away from the spotlight, the actor whose roles stirred generations …

‘Batman’ Star Val Kilmer Passes Away — Details Revealed Naomi Wanjala By Naomi Wanjala Apr 02, 2025 01:38 A.M. Link Email flipboard-icon X FacebookShare He once wore the cape of a hero and stepped into the shoes of a rock icon. Now, after years away from the spotlight, the actor whose roles stirred generations has passed away. Advertisement Val Kilmer, the versatile actor known for his roles as Jim Morrison and Batman, has passed away. Val died on Tuesday, April 1, in Los Angeles, at the age of 65. Val Kilmer during an interview in Munich in 1992 | Source: Getty Images Val Kilmer during an interview in Munich in 1992 | Source: Getty Images According to his daughter, Mercedes Kilmer, the cause of his death was pneumonia. She noted that Val had previously battled throat cancer, diagnosed in 2014, and had since recovered. Val was born on December 31, 1959, in Los Angeles. He grew up in the Chatsworth neighborhood, tucked into the city’s far northwest corner. Val rose to stardom in the 1990s, becoming a leading man with a range that extended beyond blockbuster roles. Among his most iconic appearances was as the caped crusader in “Batman Forever” (1995). Advertisement Val and Mercedes Kilmer at the 2019 Annual Thespians Go Hollywood Gala on November 18, 2019 | Source: Getty Images Val and Mercedes Kilmer at the 2019 Annual Thespians Go Hollywood Gala on November 18, 2019 | Source: Getty Images In the film, he faces off against villains Two-Face, played by Tommy Lee Jones, and the Riddler, portrayed by Jim Carrey. While the film achieved commercial success, neither Val’s performance nor the movie itself were universally embraced as high points in the Batman legacy. His off-screen life took a dramatic turn in the years that followed. In 2017, during a rare interview at his Brentwood art studio, Val sat beside his two children, Mercedes and Jack — both born during his marriage to British actress Joanne Whalley. Val Kilmer at Simply Shakespeare’s Live Read of “The Merchant Of Venice” in 2019 | Source: Getty Images Val Kilmer at Simply Shakespeare’s Live Read of “The Merchant Of Venice” in 2019 | Source: Getty Images Advertisement At the time, he was in the midst of a grueling fight with throat cancer. A tracheotomy had left his voice a harsh rasp, and his breathing labored. The struggle was made even more difficult by a personal crisis. Around the time of his diagnosis, Mercedes was struck by a car in a serious accident. “We were in the same hospital at the same time,” she later recalled. Jack, watching both his sister and father endure medical recoveries, remembered the moment vividly. “I was just, you know, miserable, distraught, sitting next to these two.” Mercedes Kilmer and Jack Kilmer attend the Premiere of Amazon Studios’ “VAL” at DGA Theater Complex on August 03, 2021 in Los Angeles, California. | Source: Getty Images Mercedes Kilmer and Jack Kilmer attend the Premiere of Amazon Studios’ “VAL” at DGA Theater Complex on August 03, 2021 in Los Angeles, California. | Source: Getty Images Despite the hardship, Val leaned on faith. As a Christian Scientist, he found spiritual grounding through his illness, though he also underwent chemotherapy in his battle against the disease. Through it all, his relationship with his children deepened. Advertisement By 2020, Val made a quiet but determined return to the screen. He starred in “Paydirt,” an indie action film in which he portrayed a sheriff — a role that mirrored his real-life condition. His character, like him, had a speech disability. “It’s pretty historic to have a lead with a speech disability,” Mercedes, who co-starred in the film, told People at the time. She called the experience a revelation, both professionally and personally. “My dad’s able to very artfully circumvent the limitations of his speech,” she said. Mercedes explained that watching how he communicated physically had taught her a great deal about acting and had expanded her understanding of what acting could be. Mercedes Kilmer at “Val” photocall during the 74th annual Cannes Film Festival on July 7, 2021, in France. | Source: Getty Images Mercedes Kilmer at “Val” photocall during the 74th annual Cannes Film Festival on July 7, 2021, in France. | Source: Getty Images Advertisement Val, never one to shy away from change, took the shift in stride. “The business changes every six months,” he joked. “The Batmobile has become much smarter since then.” The project became more than a film, it became a symbol of resilience. “The health challenges have been just that, challenging,” Mercedes said, “but so many good things have come out of it.” Val echoed the sentiment. “They really have done everything to make my health as usual,” he said. Advertisement In another joint interview with Mercedes, when Val was asked how he was doing, he replied in a coarse and strenuous voice, “I’m doing great, I feel a lot better than I sound.” Though his voice was altered, his creative spirit remained intact right to the end. His final public moments reflected the artist he had always been. On March 23, Val posted an image of his latest artwork, a glowing visual piece accompanied by the caption, “It’s got that late-night glow. Cool tones with a low burn, like when the camp fire cools down but you’re still wide awake.” Advertisement In June 2019, Val took to social media to reflect on his lifelong mission as an artist. He shared a series of photos alongside a message expressing his belief in the power of art to educate and inspire. Advertisement For him, acting was never just about performance; it was about finding truth in every character and sharing that truth with audiences. He spoke about bringing that same passion to his work with the TwainMania Foundation, an initiative aimed at promoting empathy, literacy, and tolerance through education. Val, along with other collaborators, had been working to develop a curriculum rooted in those values. He hoped the program could take root in Los Angeles and eventually expand nationwide. Advertisement The post also served as a thank-you to friends and supporters who had stood by him and the cause. He encouraged others to join the effort, emphasizing the potential of education to shape a more compassionate future. Throughout his career, Val built a diverse filmography that showcased his range and charisma. Early on, his striking looks and commanding presence often landed him roles with a rock-star edge — including his debut in “Top Secret!” (1984), where he played a singing American caught up in Cold War chaos. Val Kilmer in 1988 in Los Angeles, California | Photo: Getty Images Val Kilmer in 1988 in Los Angeles, California | Photo: Getty Images In “The Doors” (1991), Val delivered one of his most memorable performances, fully inhabiting the role of Jim Morrison with a hypnotic intensity. Just two years later, he made a brief but memorable appearance in “True Romance.” Advertisement He took on leading roles in films like “Thunderheart “(1992), portraying a young FBI agent on a Native American reservation, and “The Saint “(1997), where he played a master of disguise entangled with the Russian mob. Val Kilmer during a photoshoot in Los Angeles in 1986. | Source: Getty Images Val Kilmer during a photoshoot in Los Angeles in 1986. | Source: Getty Images In “Tombstone” (1993), Val stood out, earning praise alongside a cast that included Kurt Russell and Sam Elliott. He joined forces with Robert De Niro and Al Pacino in the crime thriller “Heat” (1995), playing a member of a high-stakes robbery crew. Other notable appearances included “The Ghost and the Darkness” (1996) and “Pollock” (2000). In Oliver Stone’s “Alexander” (2004), Val took on the role of Philip of Macedon, father to the future conqueror. Val Kilmer at the United Nations headquarters on July 20, 2019 | Source: Getty Images Val Kilmer at the United Nations headquarters on July 20, 2019 | Source: Getty Images Advertisement Throughout his film journey, Val became known, not just for his roles, but for his ability to disappear into them — unpredictable, committed, and always compelling. His career was marked by bold choices and layered performances. His dedication to craft, even in the face of personal trials, left a lasting imprint on film. He leaves behind a legacy of fearless artistry and unforgettable performances. Our condolences go to his family. Rest in peace, Val Kilmer. Link Email flipboard-icon X FacebookShare Advertisement Advertisement info The information in this article is not intended or implied to be a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis or treatment. All content, including text, and images contained on news.AmoMama.com, or available through news.AmoMama.com is for general information purposes only. news.AmoMama.com does not take responsibility for any action taken as a result of reading this article. Before undertaking any course of treatment please consult with your healthcare provider. Related posts He Was an ’80s Heartthrob Who Survived a Near-Fatal Car Accident & Battled Cancer – His Story & Pics January 30, 2025 He Was A Hollywood Star In The ’80s, But Then Survived A Terrible Road Accident & Underwent Facial Surgery – His Pics At 80 December 13, 2024 This ’80s Teen Star Left Hollywood for a While and Moved to a Farm to Battle Cancer — Her Photos at 58 March 20, 2025 ‘What Happened to Him?’: Users Stunned by Tom Cruise’s Appearance as He Receives US Navy’s Highest Civilian Honor – Photos December 18, 2024 Richard Chamberlain Hid His Partner for 27 Years – Their Story & Rare Photos of the Couple March 31, 2025 This ’70s Star Survived a Rare Form of Cancer & Left the Glamour of Hollywood — What Her Life Looks Like Now March 27, 2025 Comedy Legend Rick Moranis Left Hollywood After His Wife’s Death — Photo from His Recent Rare Appearance December 12, 2024 Jeff Baena, Writer-Director and Aubrey Plaza’s Husband, Dead at 47 — Cause of Death Revealed January 06, 2025 This Star, Who Gave Birth After Surviving Breast Cancer, Turns 75 – See Her Transformation January 29, 2025 One Thing Gene Hackman Did with His Wife Betsy Arakawa at Their Home Before They Were Both Found Dead There March 11, 2025 Doris Day’s Only Grandson Was Not Allowed to See Her & Learned about Her Death from Social Media: Meet Him Now February 24, 2025 Aubrey Plaza Speaks Out Following the Death of Her Husband Jeff Baena at 47 — Details January 07, 2025 This 76-Year-Old Beauty Stuns After Battling Cancer and Losing Her Husband – Her Transformation in Photos January 24, 2025 You Won’t Believe Who the Parents of These 6 Celebrity Kids Are — Their Names and Photos February 24, 2025 Read More