We all know Val Kilmer, who played a reprising role as Tom “Iceman” Kozansky in Top Gun: Maverick. This would be his last role. Val Kilmer died at the age of 65 due to pneumonia on April 1, 2025. He had been diagnosed with throat cancer in 2014.
We remember his legacy from his childhood to his $25 million net worth. How he achieved this milestone career.
Val Kilmer’s Net Worth in 2025
At the time of his passing, Val Kilmer’s net worth was estimated at $25 million. Kilmer was one of the most well-known and in-demand actors, but due to throat cancer in recent years, he put a stop to his acting career.
His wealth came from
- From Film: He earned tremendous high compensation from well-known films like Batman Forever, Top Gun, and The Doors.
- Art Sales: Van Wilmer is also an artist. His paintings were highly sought after.
- Book Sales: I’m Your Huckleberry is a Val Kilmer autobiography. In this book, Val shares stories behind his most beloved role, his career and love life, and his health struggle. It was a bestseller.
How did Kilmer become famous?
Kilmer was born on December 31, 1959, in Los Angeles, California. Val Kilmer’s father, Eugene Kilmer, is a real estate developer, and his mother, Gladys Ekstadt, is a homemaker. He is the 2nd child. Older brother’s name is Mark Kilmer, and younger brother’s name is Wesley Kilmer, who drowned in 1977 at just the age of 15.
Kilmer later described Wesley as a “genius” who could be the next Steven Spielberg or George Lucas. The loss deeply affected him. Val Kilmer channeled his creative side and became the youngest student ever admitted to Juilliard’s Drama Division at that time.
Kilmer began his career on stage before moving to film. Top Secret!, a comedy movie that includes his singing and dancing, was his big break in 1984.
But it was 1986’s Top Gun that gave him fame. In this movie, Kilmer played the role of Lt. Tom “Iceman” Kazansky, opposite Tom Cruise. It was one of the most legendary rivalries in movie history.
How much did Val Kilmer make from Batman?
Val Kilmer made $7 million for playing Bruce Wayne/ Batman in Batman Forever in 1955. The movie made over $336 million worldwide. Unlike some A-list stars, Kilmer did not receive a percentage of the box office profits.
Val Kilmer’s wife and Kids
Val Kilmer had two children with actress Joanne Whalley (1988–1996): Jack Kilmer (born 1995) and Mercedes Kilmer (born 1991). Despite never getting married again, he stayed close to his family; in fact, Jack and Mercedes appeared in his 2021 documentary, Val.
His Iconic Role and his Paycheck
1. The Doors (1991) – Jim Morrison
Kilmer’s role as Jim Morrison in Oliver Stone’s biopic remains one of his most beloved roles. He immersed himself completely, learning Morrison’s mannerisms, his songs, and even adopting his crazy attitude off-screen. He earn from his movie is approximately $2 million.
2. Batman Forever (1995) – Bruce Wayne / Batman
Kilmer took over the role of Batman from Michael Keaton. He brings a brooding intensity to the character throughout the film. He earn from his movie is approximately $7 million. This movie is his highest single- movie payday.
3. Tombstone (1993) – Doc Holliday
He had one of the best performance roles as the tuberculosis-stricken gunslinger Doc Holliday. He earns approximately $1-2 million from this movie.
4. Heat (1995) – Chris Shiherlis
In this movie, Kilmer co-starred with Robert De Niro and Al Pacino. He showed his flexibility through this crime epic movie. He earns approximately $1.5 – 3 million from this movie.
5. Top Gun: Maverick (2023) – Return as Iceman
Kilmer’s last on-screen appearance was with Tom Cruise. He played his role alongside his personal struggle with throat cancer, giving the movie an emotional weight. He earns approximately $1 – 2 million from this movie.
Health struggles and Throat Cancer Battle
In 2014, Kilmer, diagnosed with throat cancer, underwent a tracheostomy that left his voice weak and harsh. He frequently assured fans on Facebook that he was getting better while downplaying the seriousness of his illness for years.
The Documentary Val (2021)
In the documentary Val, which featured his home films, battles with disease, and artistic endeavor. The movie received a standing ovation during its Cannes debut.
Mercedes, his daughter, said about him:
"A layered person… childlike in playfulness but with deep wisdom from a lifelong spiritual journey."
Kilmer painted and wrote despite his health issues, posting his creations on social media just weeks before he passed away.
Final Years and Legacy
Kilmer spent his later years focusing on:
- His memoir, I’m Your Huckleberry (2020)
- Art and painting (his final Facebook post on March 22, 2025, featured a new artwork).
- Spending time with his children, Mercedes and Jack
Val Kilmer’s philanthropy and charity
Val Kilmer was a philanthropist who actively supported causes such as cancer research, children’s hospitals, and the arts. He funded The Art of Elysium, which provides artistic activities to children in hospitals, took part in fundraising events for throat cancer awareness, and gave the revenues from his memoir I’m Your Huckleberry to charitable organizations. Through educational programs, his TwainMania Foundation also advanced literacy and Mark Twain’s legacy.
How Did Val Kilmer Die?
Kilmer passed away from pneumonia on April 1, 2025, a complication stemming from his weakened immune system after years of cancer treatment.
Val Kilmer put his heart and emotion into every performance, making him more than just an actor. His roles as Doc Holliday, Jim Morrison, Iceman, and Batman will endure forever.
His fight against illness demonstrated his fortitude and tenacity, and his final years showed a man content with his legacy. Kilmer’s remarks from Val are poignant as fans around the world lament his passing:
"We’re all just passing through. The real work is love."
