Apr
Cher Honors Ex-Boyfriend Val Kilmer Following Actor’s Death at 65
Cher has shared a heartfelt tribute to her former partner, actor Val Kilmer, following his death on Tuesday at 65 due to complications from pneumonia. Kilmer, best known for iconic roles in Batman Forever, Top Gun, Willow, and The Doors, passed away surrounded by family and friends in Los Angeles.
In a personal and candid message on X (formerly Twitter) on Wednesday, Cher reflected on her past with Kilmer, whom she dated in the early 1980s. She posted a simple yet meaningful message: “Will miss u, U Were Funny, crazy, pain in the ass, GREAT FRIEND,” and added, “Kids <3 U.”
While Kilmer’s roles in blockbuster films were widely celebrated, Cher singled out his portrayal of Mark Twain in the 2012 stage production Citizen Twain as a standout in his career. She also honored his bravery in facing his battle with throat cancer, which was diagnosed in 2014 but not publicly revealed until 2017. Cher wrote, “BRAVE here during ur sickness.”
In a recent November 2024 interview on The Howard Stern Show, Cher reminisced about her deep feelings for Kilmer, calling herself “madly in love” with him before their breakup. She also recalled their first meeting at a birthday party in the early ’80s, where they instantly bonded over their shared sense of humor. Their friendship eventually blossomed into a relationship.
Cher also spoke about helping care for Kilmer during his illness, recalling how he spent significant time at her home while fighting cancer. She shared a lighthearted moment, remembering when paramedics arrived at his home during a particularly difficult time. “When one of those paramedics comes to your house, you just know you’re going to see somebody who’s really cute,” Cher said, reflecting on the bittersweet memories.
Ron Howard, who directed Kilmer in Willow and The Missing, also paid tribute, praising Kilmer’s remarkable range as an actor. Howard wrote, “I was incredibly fortunate to collaborate with Val… His art extended to his poetry, artworks, filmmaking, and simply the way he lived. Bon Voyage, Val. And thank you.”
Kilmer’s daughter, Mercedes, confirmed her father’s passing in an email to The New York Times, stating that he died on Tuesday night, surrounded by loved ones.
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