Val Kilmer, 65, was 'bedbound' in his final years after throat cancer battle left him frail: Report

LOS ANGELES, CALIFORNIA: New details coming to light about the untimely death of Hollywood star Val Kilmer suggest that he was "bedbound" in his final years because of his failing health, reported the Daily Mail.

Kilmer died on Tuesday, April 1, at the age of 65. His death was confirmed by his daughter Mercedes, 33, who revealed the cause of death to be pneumonia. Apart from her, Kilmer is also survived by his son Jack, 29. He shared both his children with his ex-wife Joanne Whalley.

Val Kilmer's health troubles

The actor known for his iconic action hero roles, such as Iceman in the 'Top Gun' franchise and Bruce Wayne/Batman in 'Batman Forever', was diagnosed with throat cancer back in 2014. He underwent chemotherapy, radiation, and surgery and was declared free from the disease in 2021.

However, the treatment left his vocal cords permanently damaged, as well as took a massive toll on his overall health. Sources close to the family reportedly told TMZ that the actor lacked energy following his cancer treatment and was confined to his bed as a result for an extended period.

While the cancer did not return, Kilmer's body seemingly stopped fighting and eventually shut down in the end. In his final days, Kilmer was reportedly very frail, and his health declined rapidly. He was hospitalized earlier this year, and his friends and family came to visit him before his demise.

Celebrity friends pay tribute to Val Kilmer

Following the death of Val Kilmer, celebrities have taken to social media platforms to pay tributes to the actor.

Actor Josh Brolin shared a picture of himself and Kilmer on Instagram, writing in the caption, "See ya, pal. I'm going to miss you. 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."

"Val Kilmer was the most talented actor when in his High School, and that talent only grew greater throughout his life," wrote legendary director Francis Ford Coppola. "He was a wonderful person to work with and a joy to know — I will always remember him."

Director and producer Ron Howard wrote on X, "#RIPValKilmer I was incredibly fortunate to collaborate with Val a number of times over the years. As the off beat swordsman #Madmartagen in #Willow , his stunning #JimMorrison in Oliver Stone’s #TheDoors & in a chilling cameo in #TheMissing. I list these titles because even my own personal creative experiences reflect his awesome range as an actor... His art extended to his poetry, artworks, filmmaking and simply the way he lived. Bon Voyage, Val And thank you."

"VALUS Will miss u,U Were Funny,crazy,pain in the ass,GREAT FRIEND,kids💜U, BRILLIANT as Mark Twain, BRAVE here during ur sickness," wrote singer Cher, who once dated Kilmer.

"I and so many will miss the great Val Kilmer who was kind and brilliant and incredibly cool. A beautiful creative artist whose work will live on. Sending love to his family," expressed actor-director Ben Stiller.

This article contains remarks made on the Internet by individual people and organizations. MEAWW cannot confirm them independently and does not support claims or opinions being made online.