In the wake of Val Kilmer's passing at age 65, his family has released a heartfelt statement expressing gratitude for the outpouring of support while requesting space to mourn their loss.
"Thank you for honoring our extraordinary father's memory," the family said in a statement to PEOPLE magazine. "We are so proud of him and honored to see his legacy celebrated. At this time, we would like to grieve privately."
Mercedes Kilmer confirmed that her father died on Tuesday, April 1, due to pneumonia. The "Top Gun" actor had previously battled throat cancer after being diagnosed in 2014, though he later went into remission.
Family sources revealed that Kilmer had been bedridden in recent years following cancer treatments, which included radiation, chemotherapy, and a tracheostomy. The procedures significantly impacted his ability to speak, requiring him to use a feeding tube and breathe through a hole in his throat.
Before his passing, Kilmer had made a memorable return to the screen in "Top Gun: Maverick," which would become his final film appearance. His co-star Tom Cruise paid tribute at CinemaCon, describing Kilmer as a "dear friend" and expressing deep admiration for his work.
The actor is survived by his two children - Mercedes, 33, and Jack Kilmer, 28. Throughout his career, Kilmer left an indelible mark on Hollywood through iconic roles in films such as "Batman Forever" and "The Doors."
Despite his health challenges, Kilmer maintained a positive outlook, sharing in 2022 that he was "feeling stronger every day" and continued receiving hundreds of fan letters weekly, which he described as "very humbling."