Val Kilmer, the enigmatic and charismatic actor known for his roles in “Top Gun” and “Batman Forever,” passed away on Tuesday in Los Angeles at the age of 65. Here are 10 things to know about the prominent actor:
1. Early Life and Juilliard Training
Born on December 31, 1959, in Los Angeles, Kilmer showed an early passion for acting. He became the youngest student ever admitted to Juilliard’s drama division, setting the stage for a career defined by intensity and dedication.
2. A Strong-Willed Performer
Kilmer was known for his perfectionist approach. In a 2003 interview with the Orange County Register, he stated,
“When certain people criticise me for being demanding, I think that’s a cover for something they didn’t do well. I think they’re trying to protect themselves. I believe I’m challenging, not demanding, and I make no apologies for that.”
3. Breakthrough in Top Gun
Kilmer gained widespread recognition as Iceman in Top Gun (1986), where he starred alongside Tom Cruise. The role established him as a Hollywood leading man and set the foundation for his future success.
4. Transforming into Jim Morrison
His role as Jim Morrison in The Doors (1991) remains one of his most iconic performances. Kilmer went to great lengths to secure the role, creating an eight-minute audition tape and performing Morrison’s songs himself, which were used in the film.
5. Becoming Batman
In 1995, Kilmer took on the role of Batman in Batman Forever, stepping in for Michael Keaton. The film, however, received mixed reviews, and director Joel Schumacher later referred to him as “the most psychologically troubled human being I’ve ever worked with.”
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6. Clashes on The Island of Dr. Moreau
Kilmer’s difficulties with directors and co-stars were well known. While filming The Island of Dr. Moreau (1996), director John Frankenheimer famously remarked,
“There are two things I would never do again in my life. I will never climb Mt. Everest and I will never work with Val Kilmer again. There isn’t enough money in the world.”
7. Hollywood’s ‘Bad Boy’ Image
By the late 1990s, Kilmer had earned a reputation for being difficult to work with. The Chicago Tribune described him as “a member in good standing of Hollywood’s bad boys club.” Despite this, he continued acting in films like The Saint (1997), Red Planet (2000), and Kiss Kiss Bang Bang (2005).
8. Health Struggles and Later Career
In 2014, Kilmer was diagnosed with throat cancer. After undergoing treatment, including a tracheostomy, his voice was permanently affected. Despite this, he continued acting in films such as The Snowman (2017), Paydirt (2020), and Top Gun: Maverick (2022).
9. Personal Life and Relationships
Kilmer was linked to high-profile relationships, including singer Cher and model Cindy Crawford. Though private about his personal life, his connections with Hollywood’s elite were often the subject of media attention.
10. A Lasting Legacy
Despite the controversies and health battles, Kilmer’s dedication to his craft never wavered. Director Phillip Noyce, who worked with him on The Saint, once said,
“He is plagued by a bad image, but most of it is unjustified. The real Val Kilmer is a lamb. And he is the hardest-working actor I’ve ever seen.”
Kilmer leaves behind a body of work that showcases his range, passion, and undeniable talent, ensuring his place in cinematic history.
(Reuters)
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