Renowned actor Val Kilmer, celebrated for his iconic roles in films such as Top Gun, Batman Forever, and The Doors, sadly passed away on April 1, 2025, at the age of 65. His daughter, Mercedes Kilmer, conveyed the news to The New York Times, attributing his passing to complications arising from pneumonia.
Prior to his death, Kilmer had triumphed over throat cancer, which he was diagnosed with in 2014. Following the announcement of his passing, tributes flooded in from various celebrities in Hollywood, with Cher, his former partner, expressing heartfelt condolences.
A Look Back at Cher and Val Kilmer’s Romance
Cher and Val Kilmer first crossed paths at a birthday celebration in the early 1980s, sparking a romance that would captivate the public. Their relationship lasted for two years before coming to a close in 1984, creating buzz due to their 13-year age difference—Cher was 36 and Kilmer was just 23. Despite their breakup, Cher maintained a close friendship with Kilmer, frequently speaking fondly of him in interviews.
Following Kilmer’s death, Cher took to social media to share her grief, posting a tribute on X (formerly Twitter) early on April 2. In her heartfelt message, she reflected on Kilmer’s unique spirit:
“VALUS Will miss u, U Were Funny, crazy, pain in the ass, GREAT FRIEND, kids [purple heart emoji] U. BRILLIANT as Mark Twain BRAVE here during ur sickness.”
In a 2021 interview with PEOPLE, Cher fondly recalled their initial connection, noting, “We became friends because we laughed at the same things constantly,”explaining how their friendship blossomed into romance. Even after their love affair ended, the duo remained close, and Cher continued to support him through his health struggles.
During a November 2024 appearance on the Howard Stern Show, she shared her reflections on their past, stating:
“I was madly in love with Val Kilmer, and he left… Sometimes, you’re only meant to stay with someone so long… Val was really young.”
Moreover, Cher played a significant role in Kilmer’s cancer journey, often helping him during his treatment. In 2021, she shared, “He was brave the whole time. I saw how sick he was,” highlighting the depth of their bond beyond potential fears and challenges.
Remembering Val Kilmer’s Artistic Legacy
Val Kilmer was not only a beloved actor but also made significant contributions to the world of theater. Cher herself regarded his performance in Citizen Twain as one of his most extraordinary achievements, showcasing his talent beyond the screen.
In the wake of his passing, tributes poured in from his colleagues and friends. Tom Cruise, who starred alongside Kilmer in both Top Gun (1986) and Top Gun: Maverick (2022), expressed his deep sorrow, recognizing Kilmer’s unmatched talent and contributions to the film industry, as reported by Entertainment Weekly.
Director Ron Howard also paid tribute, reflecting on Kilmer’s impressive versatility in films like Willow, The Doors, and The Missing. He stated:
“His art extended to his poetry, artworks, filmmaking, and simply the way he lived,”
illustrating the breadth of Kilmer’s creative pursuits. Fellow director Francis Ford Coppola, along with numerous fans, also celebrated Kilmer’s remarkable career and lasting impact on the arts.
The New York Times confirmed the news of Val Kilmer’s death through his daughter, Mercedes Kilmer, who shared that he passed away surrounded by loved ones in Los Angeles, marking the end of an era embodied by one of Hollywood’s most talented actors.