Val Kilmer shared one last piece of his artistic spirit before passing away at 65, leaving behind a legacy of iconic roles and heartfelt creativity.
Legendary actor Val Kilmer, best known for his roles in Top Gun, Batman Forever, and The Doors, shared a poignant Instagram post just days before his passing. On March 22, 2025, Kilmer posted an image of a surreal painting, depicting what he described as a “campfire” with a deep glow, embodying warmth and reflection. Just over a week later, on April 1, he passed away from pneumonia after a long battle with throat cancer, as confirmed by his daughter, Mercedes Kilmer, to The New York Times.
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The post featured Val Kilmer’s own words: “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. 12” x 20” plexi-glazed, signed, and ready to hang. ValKilmer.com.” The caption was a reminder of his artistic passion, one that extended far beyond acting and into the realm of visual expression.
Following the news of his passing, fans flooded the comments section of his Instagram with tributes. One fan wrote, “Rest in Peace, you amazing artist and human!” Another shared, “You were an amazing actor with roles that will live on forever.”
Val Kilmer had been sharing his artwork frequently in recent months. On March 16, he posted another painting, writing, “Some art hums like a power chord—loud, untamed, and unforgettable. If this one strikes the right note for you, grab one of the 10 available.” He even brought back a bit of his Batman Forever past in February, donning a Batman mask while showing off another painting in a video.
Val Kilmer, who passed away in Los Angeles, left behind a diverse artistic legacy. Beyond his celebrated performances in Tombstone, Heat, and The Saint, he was also a dedicated visual artist, selling unique pieces through his website.
His passing marks the end of an era for Hollywood, where Val Kilmer‘s presence was both dynamic and deeply personal. He was an actor who threw himself into every role, whether it was playing Jim Morrison in The Doors or Doc Holliday in Tombstone, and his influence will continue to resonate with fans and fellow artists alike.
As tributes pour in, Val Kilmer’s final Instagram post serves as a poetic farewell—a glowing ember of his creative spirit that will continue to burn in the hearts of those who admired him.
