Kilmer also said that there was "very little" to the character of Iceman so he invited his own backstory. "None of us knew at the time what a crazy commercial success the film wou

Val Kilmer flew a fighter jet and drove the Batmobile for one great movie life. Here are his 10 best roles, from "Willow" to "The Doors."

Jerry Bruckheimer, a producer on the sequel, said in 2022 that Tom Cruise was the "driving force" behind getting Val Kilmer to return for the movie.

After news of Val Kilmer's death, Variety looks back at his career in photos, from "Top Gun" to "Batman Forever" and more.

As Iceman in 'Top Gun,' Val Kilmer, who died yesterday at 65, brought all of his warmth and intelligence to bear.

Val Kilmer, best known for his role in the 'Top Gun' movies with Tom Cruise and his role as Batman, died at age 65 on April 1, 2025, of pneumonia. See his life and career in photos

Kilmer died Tuesday night in Los Angeles from pneumonia, his daughter, Mercedes Kilmer, told The New York Times and The Associated Press. Kilmer was diagnosed with throat cancer in 2014 and later recovered,

Charismatic and versatile, he also won praise for memorable roles as Iceman in 'Top Gun' and Doc Holliday in 'Tombstone,' but his unpredictable behavior ruffled some feathers in Hollywood.