Val Kilmer’s last ever Instagram posts as daughter confirms cause of death

Val Kilmer shared his final Instagram post just days before his passing.

The 65-year-old actor passed away on April 1 after dealing with multiple health issues in recent years. His daughter, Mercedes, told the New York Times that his cause of death was pneumonia.

Many remember Kilmer for his roles in Top Gun and Batman Forever. In 2014, he was diagnosed with throat cancer. As part of his treatment, he underwent chemotherapy and a tracheotomy, which permanently affected his vocal cords.

Kilmer, who first appeared on screen in the 1984 film Top Secret, talked about his illness and recovery in his 2020 memoir, I’m Your Huckleberry, and the Amazon Prime documentary Val.

“I obviously am sounding much worse than I feel,” Kilmer said in the documentary. “I can’t speak without plugging this hole (in his throat). You have to make the choice to breathe or to eat. It’s an obstacle that is very present with whoever sees me.”

His last film role was in Top Gun: Maverick, released in 2022, where he reprised his role as Iceman.

After his cancer battle, Kilmer stepped away from acting and focused on creating art. His Instagram page became a place where he shared his artwork with fans.

His last Instagram post featured one of his paintings, with the caption: “It’s got that late-night glow. Cool tones with a low burn, like when the campfire cools down but you’re still wide awake.”

The last time Kilmer himself appeared on his Instagram was on February 23. In the photo, he was seen wearing a Batman mask alongside artist and Walking Dead actor David Choe. His caption read: “It’s been a while.”

Following his passing, tributes have poured in from fans and fellow actors.

Actor Josh Brolin shared on social media: “You were a smart, challenging, brave, uber-creative firecracker. There’s not a lot left of those. I hope to see you up there in the heavens when I eventually get there. Until then, amazing memories, lovely thoughts.”

Josh Gad also honored Kilmer, writing: “RIP Val Kilmer. Thank you for defining so many of the movies of my childhood. You truly were an icon.”