The late and legendary Val Kilmer will forever be remembered for his remarkable performances in iconic films. His passing on April 1, 2025, at the age of 65, left a significant void in the cinematic world, yet his impressive body of work continues to captivate audiences. Emerging during the 1980s with standout supporting roles, Kilmer quickly ascended to become one of Hollywood’s top-grossing stars throughout the 1990s. Notably, he portrayed enchanting characters such as Robert De Niro’s confidant in Heat and the enigmatic Dark Knight in Batman Forever, positioning him as an unsung hero of the silver screen.
Kilmer’s journey is poignantly captured in his 2020 memoir, I’m Your Huckleberry: A Memoir, and the illuminating documentary Val released in 2021. Both works provide insight into his initial career hurdles, personal dilemmas, and his courageous battle with health issues. Despite these challenges, Kilmer remained devoted to his craft and to his fans. His legacy thrives through the unforgettable roles he played, spanning from Jim Morrison in The Doors to an imaginative Elvis Presley in True Romance, showcasing his incredible range and talent.
8. Elvis Presley in True Romance
Kilmer showcased his versatility even in minor roles, as evidenced by his cameo as Elvis Presley in Tarantino’s True Romance. The film centers on Clarence Worley, a comic book enthusiast who embarks on a chaotic journey after he marries an escort—a journey that includes a briefcase filled with drugs. With an homage to Woody Allen’s Play It Again, Sam, Kilmer’s Elvis appears as a hallucination, offering Clarence advice and comic relief. His portrayal is a perfect balance of humor and authenticity, highlighted by one of the film’s best lines: “Clarence, I like you. Always have, always will.”
7. Nick Rivers in Top Secret!
In what was his first film role, Kilmer embodied an Elvis-inspired character, Nick Rivers, in the satirical comedy Top Secret!. Following the success of Airplane!, the comedic trio Zucker, Abrahams, and Zucker ventured into a more unconventional narrative that blended Cold War spy films with Elvis-style musicals. Kilmer’s electric performance as Rivers takes center stage, delivering humor and musical flair that perfectly aligns with the film’s absurdist tone.
6. Jim Morrison in The Doors
Long before music biopics became a staple in Hollywood, Kilmer portrayed the iconic Jim Morrison in Oliver Stone’s The Doors. This film amplifies Morrison’s captivating rock star persona, and Kilmer intricately crafts a complex character filled with both charm and darkness. His profound performance reflects the turbulence of Morrison’s life, capturing the essence of his artistic genius while exploring his personal demons.
5. Gay Perry in Kiss Kiss Bang Bang
Directed by Shane Black, Kiss Kiss Bang Bang features Kilmer as the sardonic private investigator Gay Perry, opposite Robert Downey Jr.’s novice actor Harry Lockhart. This clever satire of the detective genre combines humor with sharp wit, allowing Kilmer to display his comedic talents alongside a bit of action. The chemistry between Kilmer and Downey is palpable, making their dynamic both hilarious and engaging as they navigate through absurd situations with perfect comedic timing.
4. Bruce Wayne/Batman in Batman Forever
After the darker tones of Batman Returns, Warner Bros. enlisted Joel Schumacher to steer the franchise in a new direction for Batman Forever. With Tim Burton replaced and Michael Keaton stepping away, Kilmer emerged as the new Caped Crusader. His performance was met with critical acclaim, as he skillfully balanced the campiness of the character with the deep emotional undertones of Bruce Wayne, defining a pivotal moment in the famed superhero’s cinematic journey.
3. Chris Shiherlis in Heat
In Michael Mann’s groundbreaking crime film Heat, Kilmer plays Chris Shiherlis, a fundamental figure alongside Robert De Niro’s Neil McCauley. The film redefines the heist genre by highlighting the complexities of both criminals and law enforcement. Kilmer’s portrayal of Shiherlis is noteworthy, especially as he navigates personal struggles and a nuanced friendship with Neil, illustrating the human side of crime amidst intense action sequences.
2. Iceman in Top Gun & Top Gun: Maverick
Kilmer’s breakthrough role as LT Tom Kazansky, famously dubbed “Iceman,” in the action classic Top Gun, established him as a household name. His character serves as both a rival and a confidant to Tom Cruise’s Maverick. Kilmer’s nuanced performance culminated in a memorable relationship, highlighted by his striking screen presence. He reprised this role in Top Gun: Maverick, delivering a touching moment with Cruise that honors his legacy, even after losing his voice to illness.
1. Doc Holliday in Tombstone
Among Kilmer’s illustrious performances, his portrayal of Doc Holliday in Tombstone stands out as paramount. While the film focuses on Wyatt Earp’s narrative, Kilmer’s depiction eclipses the main storyline, marking his performance as one of the most memorable in cinematic history. He captures the essence of Holliday’s charm, alongside the struggle with his declining health and vices, ultimately turning the historical character into a captivating icon. Val Kilmer’s remarkable talents illuminated the film, solidifying his place as a legendary actor.