How did celebrities react to Val Kilmer’s death on social media? Why do you think he was so loved by his peers?
When news broke that Val Kilmer, the beloved actor from Top Gun and Batman Forever, had passed away, the world paused.
His death on April 1, 2025, at age 65 from pneumonia, left fans and friends in shock. But what did his fellow stars have to say about losing this Hollywood icon?
From heartfelt words to personal memories, celebrities shared their thoughts online and in statements, painting a picture of a man who touched many lives.
Keep reading to see how the entertainment world honored Val Kilmer.
Kilmer’s career spanned decades, with roles that made him a household name. His battle with throat cancer and his quiet strength in his final years only added to his legacy.
After his daughter, Mercedes Kilmer, confirmed his passing, tributes poured in from all corners of Hollywood. Let’s dive into what some of his famous peers said about him.
Celebrities React to Val Kilmer’s Death
Social media became a space for celebrities to express their sadness. Josh Gad, known for voicing Olaf in Frozen, posted on Instagram,
“RIP Val Kilmer. Thank you for defining so many of the movies of my childhood. You truly were an icon.”
His words echoed the feelings of many who grew up watching Kilmer’s films. On X, Kat Cressida wrote,
“HEARTBROKEN. His pure VERSATILITY & TALENT gifted us Pop Culture MAGIC… His PASSION & COMMITMENT will be DEEPLY MISSED.”
She highlighted his range, from playing Iceman to Jim Morrison, showing how much he meant to her.
Cher, who dated Kilmer in the 1980s, shared a personal note on X:
“VALUS. Will miss u, U Were Funny, crazy, pain in the ass, GREAT FRIEND, kids [love] U, BRILLIANT as Mark Twain, BRAVE here during ur sickness.” Her message showed their deep bond.
Meanwhile, Matthew Modine posted on X,
“RIP Val Kilmer. If it wasn’t for our chance encounter at the Source in 1985, I may never have been cast in FULL METAL JACKET. Thanks, Val.”
This memory revealed how Kilmer’s influence reached beyond the screen.
Hollywood Legends Pay Tribute
Big names from the film world also spoke out. Michael Mann, who directed Kilmer in Heat, told The Hollywood Reporter,
“While working with Val on Heat, I always marveled at the range, the brilliant variability within the powerful current of Val’s possessing and expressing character. After so many years of Val battling disease and maintaining his spirit, this is tremendously sad news.”
His words praised Kilmer’s talent and resilience.
Francis Ford Coppola, who worked with Kilmer on Twixt, said on Instagram,
“Val Kilmer was the most talented actor when in his High School, and that talent only grew greater throughout his life. He was a wonderful person to work with and a joy to know — I will always remember him.”
Coppola’s tribute showed Kilmer’s lasting impact.
Nicolas Cage, a co-star from Bad Lieutenant, added,
“I always liked Val and am sad to hear of his passing. I thought he was a genius actor… He should have won the Oscar for The Doors.”
Jim Carrey, who starred with Kilmer in Batman Forever, shared,
“I’m remembering Val Kilmer today with great admiration for him as a man and as a generational talent… Wishing his family so much love.”
Josh Brolin wrote on Instagram, “See ya, pal. I’m going to miss you. You were a smart, challenging, brave, uber-creative firecracker.”
A Lasting Legacy in Words
The outpouring of love didn’t stop there. Jennifer Tilly recalled meeting Kilmer during The Doors auditions, saying on X,
“A sixties convertible came screeching up, blaring Doors Music… It was Val Kilmer and from that minute on, nobody else stood a chance. Rip King.”
Michelle Monaghan, from Kiss Kiss Bang Bang, posted, “A kind, curious, committed, rebellious, and radical gent. I treasured my time with you. Godspeed buddy.”
From X posts to official statements, these reactions show how much Val Kilmer meant to Hollywood. His death left a gap, but the words of his peers keep his memory alive.
Whether they worked with him or admired him from afar, these stars agreed: Val Kilmer was one of a kind.
You might also want to read: Val Kilmer’s Daughter Shares His Latest Social Media Post
