Early Life and Career

Val Kilmer was born on December 31, 1959, in Los Angeles, California. He grew up in a Christian Science family and developed a passion for drama at an early age. Kilmer attended Chatsworth High School, where he met future actor Kevin Spacey, and later enrolled in the Juilliard School in New York.

Kilmer's early career included stage performances, such as his debut in the play How It All Began, and minor film roles. His breakthrough came with the 1984 film Top Secret!, where he showcased his singing talent and comedic skills.

Rise to Fame

Kilmer's portrayal of Lt. Tom 'Iceman' Kazansky in Top Gun (1986) cemented his status as a rising star. He went on to play iconic roles in films like The Doors (1991), where he embodied Jim Morrison, and Tombstone (1993), where he played Doc Holliday.

Throughout his career, Kilmer demonstrated his versatility by taking on a wide range of roles, from comedy to drama to action. He worked with renowned directors like Oliver Stone and Tony Scott, and starred alongside notable actors like Tom Cruise and Johnny Depp.

Personal Life and Later Career

Kilmer's personal life was marked by high-profile relationships and a strong commitment to his Christian Science faith. He was married to actress Joanne Whalley from 1988 to 1996 and had two children with her.

In the 2000s, Kilmer continued to act in films and theater productions, including a one-man show called Citizen Twain. He was diagnosed with throat cancer in 2014 and underwent treatment, which affected his voice and breathing.

Kilmer's final starring role was in the 2022 film Top Gun: Maverick, where he reprised his iconic character Iceman. The film was a critical and commercial success, and Kilmer's performance was widely praised.