Val Kilmer, renowned for his memorable role in Batman Forever, tragically passed away on April 1, 2025, at the age of 65. In a heartfelt statement to The New York Times, his daughter, Mercedes Kilmer, revealed that pneumonia was the cause of his untimely death.
At the time of his passing, Val Kilmer’s net worth was estimated to be around $10 million, according to Celebrity Net Worth. His health had been further complicated by battles with throat cancer, which were frequently followed by hospital visits, as noted by People magazine.
In an interview with The Hollywood Reporter approximately eight years ago, Kilmer discussed the impact of a procedure on his trachea, which affected his voice and breathing. Despite ongoing speculations regarding his health, he reassured fans during a 2015 Facebook post, stating:
“I have not had a tumor, or tumor operations. I had a complication where the best way to receive care was to stay under the watchful eye of the UCLA ICU. I am praying for a speedy return to the boards as they say. God bless you all and please don’t worry.”
Following the news of his passing, a wave of tributes flooded social media. Fans celebrated Val Kilmer’s extraordinary performances, reminiscing about his iconic roles. Comedian Ian Thomas Malone highlighted Kilmer’s unique talent on Facebook, saying:
“Some of the most beautiful cheekbones in cinema. Such an underrated talent who always brought a singular energy to every role. His Bruce Wayne was way better than anyone gave him credit for. Iceman will be missed.”
A Glimpse into Val Kilmer’s Career and Earnings
Val Kilmer’s illustrious acting career significantly contributed to his net worth, establishing him as a beloved figure in Hollywood. According to Celebrity Net Worth, he owned an expansive 6,000-acre ranch in New Mexico, which he sold for $18.5 million in 2011, retaining about 160 acres until his death.
Beginning his career in 1983 with a role on ABC’s Afterschool Special, Kilmer became a household name over four decades, starring in iconic films such as Top Gun, The Doors, Tombstone, True Romance, and The Prince of Egypt.
In terms of earnings, Kilmer secured approximately $7 million for his role in Batman Forever. He accumulated substantial wealth from other film projects including The Saint and The Island of Dr. Moreau, netting him a combined total of around $13 million.
Interestingly, sources suggest that Kilmer was slated to earn about $400,000 for his role in Top Gun: Maverick, although this payment ultimately did not materialize. Additionally, his income from the romantic drama At First Sight was reported at $9 million.
Val Kilmer also lent his voice to several animation projects, including Delgo, Knight Rider, and Planes. Though he never occupied leading roles on television, his appearances in TV films like Billy the Kid and The Murders in the Rue Morgue contributed to his diverse portfolio. In 2021, a self-titled documentary about his life was released, revealing deeper insights into his journey.