Val Kilmer

About

Val Kilmer is an American actor who gained fame for his diverse roles in both blockbuster and independent films. Known for his versatility and dedication to his craft, Kilmer has delivered memorable performances in various genres ranging from action to drama. Some of his notable roles include playing "Iceman" in "Top Gun,” Jim Morrison in "The Doors," and Doc Holliday in "Tombstone."

Before Fame

Born on December 31, 1959, in Los Angeles, California, Val Kilmer grew up in a family with a strong artistic inclination. His father, Eugene Kilmer, was a real estate developer and aerospace equipment distributor, while his mother, Gladys, was involved in various artistic pursuits. Kilmer displayed a keen interest in acting from an early age and ultimately attended Juilliard’s Drama Division, where he honed his craft and became the youngest person ever accepted to the prestigious program at that time.

Trivia

• Val Kilmer turned down a role in "The Outsiders," which was later taken by Tom Cruise.
• He is one of the few actors who have portrayed both Batman (in "Batman Forever") and a real-life rock star, Jim Morrison.
• Kilmer is also a published poet, having released a collection titled "My Edens After Burns."
• Despite his reservations about becoming a screen actor initially, Kilmer went on to become one of Hollywood's most sought-after stars of the late 80s and 90s.
• He often immerses himself deeply in his roles, which sometimes results in tension with directors and co-stars.

Family Life

Val Kilmer was married to actress Joanne Whalley, who he met while working on "Willow." The couple has two children: a daughter named Mercedes and a son named Jack. Despite their divorce in 1996, Kilmer remains committed to his children's well-being. He has dealt with significant health challenges in recent years, including a battle with throat cancer, which significantly impacted his speech.

Associated With

In his extensive career, Val Kilmer has had the opportunity to work with several celebrated directors and actors. He shared screen space with Tom Cruise in "Top Gun," starred alongside Robert Downey Jr. in "Kiss Kiss Bang Bang," and collaborated with Oliver Stone for the movie "The Doors." Kilmer's portrayal of Jim Morrison in "The Doors" remains one of his most lauded performances and is frequently praised for its accuracy and depth.

Val Kilmer continues to be a respected and influential figure in the world of acting, with a career that has left an indelible mark on the industry. Despite recent health challenges, his legacy endures through his unforgettable performances and dedication to the craft of acting.