Val Kilmer's Family Pays Tribute to 'Extraordinary' Actor After His Passing

The family of Val Kilmer has spoken out following the "Top Gun" actor's death, describing him as an "extraordinary" individual whose legacy will live on. Kilmer, 65, passed away on Tuesday due to pneumonia, according to reports from The Associated Press.

In a heartfelt statement shared with Fox News Digital, the family expressed their gratitude: "Thank you for honoring our extraordinary father’s memory. We are so proud of him and honored to see his legacy celebrated." They also requested privacy during this period of mourning, promising to reach out in the future if circumstances change.

Earlier that day, Kilmer's "Top Gun" co-star, Tom Cruise, took a moment to honor his late friend while promoting the upcoming "Mission: Impossible – The Final Reckoning." Cruise, who shared a long and storied history with Kilmer, expressed his admiration during an emotional tribute. "I can’t tell you how much I admired his work," he said, before asking for a moment of silence in Kilmer's memory. Kilmer, famously known for his portrayal of Tom "Iceman" Kazansky in the original "Top Gun," had reprised his role in the 2022 sequel, "Top Gun: Maverick."

Despite his return to the big screen, Kilmer faced significant challenges due to health complications. After undergoing a tracheostomy, he required a breathing tube and struggled with speech. In a 2021 interview, Kilmer candidly shared this reality: "I can't speak without plugging this hole [in my throat]. You have to make the choice to breathe or to eat. It's an obstacle that is very present with whoever sees me."

Born and raised in Los Angeles, Kilmer's journey to stardom was marked by passion and talent. He attended the prestigious Juilliard School in New York City, making his film debut in the 1984 comedy "Top Secret!" However, it was his portrayal of Jim Morrison in Oliver Stone's 1991 rock docudrama "The Doors" that catapulted him to fame. Kilmer later captivated audiences with roles such as Doc Holliday in "Tombstone" and Elvis Presley's spirit in "True Romance," before donning the cape in "Batman Forever."

Val Kilmer leaves behind two children, Mercedes and Jack, who now carry his legacy forward. His contributions to film and his resilience in the face of adversity have cemented his status as a Hollywood icon. For a man who played such legendary characters, it's safe to say Kilmer himself was just as legendary.