Val Kilmer, the celebrated actor renowned for his versatile roles in iconic films such as "The Prince of Egypt," "Top Gun," "The Doors," "Tombstone," and "Batman Forever," has sadly passed away at the age of 65, as reported by the New York Times. His daughter, Mercedes Kilmer, revealed that the cause of death was pneumonia, a complication that often arises in individuals with weakened immune systems, which he faced after battling throat cancer in recent years. Born in Los Angeles, California, Kilmer was not only a talented actor but also a graduate of the prestigious Juilliard School, where he honed his craft. He emerged as one of Hollywood’s leading men in the 1990s, captivating audiences with his intense performances and undeniable charisma. However, his career was not without its challenges; a series of conflicts with directors and co-stars, coupled with a few commercial misfires, contributed to a decline in his Hollywood stature. Kilmer had an indelible reputation for being temperamental and demanding. He famously defended his approach to acting in a 2003 interview with the Orange County Register, stating, "When certain people criticize me for being demanding, I think that’s a cover for something they didn’t do well. I think they’re trying to protect themselves. I believe I’m challenging, not demanding, and I make no apologies for that." His strong personality and perfectionistic nature often created a stir on set, but those who worked with him recognized his dedication to his craft. Kilmer made his film debut with the comedic spy film "Top Secret!" in 1984, and his rise to fame was solidified with the 1986 blockbuster "Top Gun," where he portrayed Tom "Iceman" Kazansky, a role that showcased his natural charm and competitive spirit. The film not only became a cultural phenomenon but also paved the way for a successful reunion with co-star Tom Cruise in the much-anticipated 2022 sequel, "Top Gun: Maverick." In 1988, Kilmer starred in the fantasy epic "Willow," directed by Ron Howard, where he also met his future wife, British actress Joanne Whalley. The couple had two children but later divorced, navigating the complexities of personal life amid the pressures of Hollywood stardom. One of Kilmer's most notable performances was in Oliver Stone's biographical film "The Doors" (1991), where he took on the role of Jim Morrison, the enigmatic frontman of the eponymous rock band. To win the role, Kilmer produced an impressive eight-minute video showcasing his vocal talent and his ability to embody Morrison's persona at different stages of his life. His commitment paid off, and he performed all of the singing in the film, solidifying his reputation as a multifaceted artist. The early 1990s marked a pinnacle in Kilmer's career, particularly with his role as Doc Holliday in the 1993 Western classic "Tombstone." His portrayal of the legendary gunslinger received critical acclaim, further establishing him as a leading man. Additionally, his roles in the 1995 crime drama "Heat," alongside heavyweights Al Pacino and Robert De Niro, and as Batman in "Batman Forever" showcased his versatility, though the latter was met with mixed reviews. The film's reception was lukewarm, with many critics noting the overwhelming presence of co-stars like Tommy Lee Jones and Jim Carrey, leading to Kilmer's decision to exit the franchise. Reflecting on his career, director Joel Schumacher described Kilmer as "the most psychologically troubled human being I’ve ever worked with," hinting at the complexities that defined his professional and personal life. Despite the ups and downs, Kilmer's legacy is marked by his remarkable contributions to cinema and his ability to capture the essence of the characters he portrayed. As fans and colleagues mourn his passing, Val Kilmer’s impact on Hollywood will undoubtedly be remembered for years to come.