Val Kilmer, celebrated Hollywood actor, dies at 65, leaving behind a significant estate to his children, Mercedes and Jack Kilmer.
Val Kilmer, the acclaimed Hollywood actor known for his roles in iconic films, passed away on April 1 at the age of 65 due to complications from pneumonia.
The news of his passing was confirmed by his daughter,
Mercedes Kilmer, from his marriage to actress Joan Volcy.
Kilmer was a prominent figure in the 1990s film industry, gaining fame for his role as Lieutenant Iceman in the blockbuster "Top Gun," which propelled him among the highest-paid actors of his era.
His portrayal of Batman in "Batman Forever" earned him around $7 million, while other projects such as "The Saint," "Island of Doctor Moreau," and "At First Sight" saw him amass significant earnings, with the latter earning him approximately $9 million.
However, behind the glitz and glamour of Hollywood lay a personal struggle; Kilmer was diagnosed with throat cancer over a decade ago.
His treatment included a tracheotomy that permanently altered his voice, leading to a withdrawal from public life and the film industry for a time.
In spite of these challenges, Kilmer maintained his dedication to art, family, and his children.
Mercedes and Jack Kilmer, who are also pursuing careers in acting, were his steadfast supporters throughout his illness.
They are now set to inherit Kilmer's estimated wealth, which ranges between $10 million and $25 million, according to Celebrity Net Worth.
In addition to his illustrious film career, Kilmer was a successful investor, owning various artworks, intellectual property rights, a house in Los Angeles, and a 6,000-acre ranch in New Mexico, which he partially sold to an oil magnate for $18.5 million.
Following their father's passing,
Mercedes and Jack released a brief but heartfelt statement through People magazine, expressing pride in their father and requesting privacy as they navigate this challenging time.