Val Kilmer, the renowned actor known for his roles in films such as "Top Gun" and "Batman Forever," passed away on Tuesday at the age of 65 due to pneumonia, as confirmed by his daughter. While Kilmer was diagnosed with throat cancer over a decade ago, this illness was not the direct cause of his death.
Kilmer's throat cancer diagnosis came in 2014, although he kept it private initially and only disclosed it publicly in 2017. He underwent a tracheotomy, a surgical procedure that creates an opening in the neck to facilitate breathing. This intervention significantly impacted his ability to speak, and Kilmer utilized a voice box to communicate, as shown in his 2021 documentary "Val."
Although Kilmer was reported to be cancer-free in recent years, the long-term effects of his tracheotomy and the treatments he received—namely chemotherapy and radiation—may have contributed to his vulnerability to pneumonia. While Kilmer's daughter did not specify a connection between his past throat cancer and the pneumonia that led to his death, medical sources indicate that a tracheotomy can increase the risk of respiratory infections such as pneumonia.
Kilmer's health struggles have been a significant aspect of his life in recent years, culminating in a public narrative that includes his experiences with cancer and the resultant challenges. His passing marks the end of a notable career in Hollywood, characterized by a diverse array of performances and a significant impact on film culture.