Val Kilmer is 65! Here Are 6 Things You Didn’t Know About the ‘Top Gun’ Star

Lauren Novak December 31, 2024

374888 01: Val Kilmer stars as masseur Virgil Adamson, who has been blind since he was a child in — MGM/Getty; Everett Collection

Val Kilmer, the versatile actor whose career includes many iconic roles, from the cool-headed “Iceman” in Top Gun to the intense portrayal of Jim Morrison in The Doors, turns 65 today, Dec. 31, 2024. Though the star has been dealing with health issues in recent years, including a battle with cancer that led to a tracheotomy, he continues to stay creative and passionate with his art.

Here are a few things you never knew about the star.

1He sang in The Doors

TriStar Pictures/Everett Collection

Kilmer’s portrayal of rock legend Jim Morrison in The Doors (1991) wasn’t just acting; it was immersion. He not only mimicked Morrison’s style but also performed the vocals himself, leaving fans and bandmates in awe. Kilmer’s commitment to accuracy was so intense, that the actual original members of the Doors sometimes couldn’t distinguish between his voice and Morrison’s — a true testament to his dedication to the role.

2He got hurt playing Jim Morrison

THE DOORS, Val Kilmer (front left), 1991

TriStar Pictures/Everett Collection

While filming The Doors, Kilmer wasn’t afraid to dive into the action — but unfortunately, things took a wrong turn. During a daring stage jump, he broke his arm. The injury left a lasting mark on Kilmer and affected some of his future roles.

3He was a Juilliard prodigy

Everett Collection

Before making his mark in Hollywood, Kilmer was one of Juilliard’s brightest young stars. At just 17 years old, he became the youngest person to be accepted into the prestigious drama school, where he honed his craft alongside other up-and-coming actors. His professional career began on stage and soon moved on to the screen in the 1984 film Top Secret!

4He joined humanitarian efforts in Iraq

JAMAL NASRALLAH/AFP via Getty Images

In 1998, he put his fame to good use, traveling to Iraq with the organization AmeriCares on a humanitarian mission. His journey wasn’t just a publicity stunt, but it was part of his ongoing commitment to supporting causes that make a real-world difference.

5His love of cars led to an unexpected friendship

(L-R) Actor Val Kilmer and Rapper 50 Cent arrive at Nokia Theatre L.A. Live on November 22, 2009 in Los Angeles, California

Jon Kopaloff/FilmMagic/Getty Images

Filming Streets of Blood (2009) led to an unexpected bond between Kilmer and rapper 50 Cent; their shared love for vintage cars brought them together off-screen. Kilmer’s collection of high-end vehicles was matched by 50 Cent’s, and the two developed a friendship that lasted after filming wrapped. Kilmer even received a jaw-dropping gift from 50 Cent: a 1965 Chevy Impala worth over $100,000!

6He was a reluctant “Iceman”

Paramount/Everett Collection

Though it’s the role that made him a household name, Kilmer wasn’t initially thrilled about playing the arrogant Tom “Iceman” Kazansky in Top Gun (1986). Concerned the film would promote a “warmongering” message, he nearly turned down the role.

However, director Tony Scott convinced him to take it, emphasizing the opportunity to shine alongside rising star Tom Cruise. Once on set, Kilmer deliberately added tension by keeping a cool distance from his co-stars, including Cruise and Anthony Edwards, to make his character’s rivalry with Maverick more authentic.