Val Kilmer was a famous movie actor who passed away on April 1st, 2025. He has been in some of the most popular movies of the last 30 years, and we are lucky to have many of his best movies and memoirs in our collection. Take a minute to check out his works as we reflect on his life and impact.
"...Chris Knight in Real Genius, the rebellious, irreverent science whiz kid at the fictional Pacific Tech (a thinly disguised Caltech) who befriends a shy young 15-year-old freshman (Gabriel Jarret). It was only his second feature film role, but Kilmer was unforgettable"
The beloved character Shawn Spencer from Psych was a twist on Kilmer's character from Real Genius. Can you spot how James Roday Rodrqiuez incorporated Kilmer's character? Recheck out Real Genius or watch it for the first time in our collection.
The Top Gun Naval Fighter Weapons School is where the best of the best train to refine their elite flying skills. When hotshot fighter pilot Maverick is sent to the school, his reckless attitude and cocky demeanor put him at odds with the other pilots, especially the cool and collected Iceman.
If you've only seen Top Gun Maverick, you owe it to yourself to check out where it all started!
"Why Johnny Ringo. You look like someone just walked over your grave."
Doc Holiday is arguably in the top 3 characters that Val Kilmer is known for. A good friend to Wyatt Earp and his brothers, the character was a fan favorite in this portrayal of the gunfight at the O.K. Corral.
In this New York Times bestseller, legendary actor and star of the acclaimed documentary Val shares the stories behind his most beloved roles, reminisces about his star-studded career and love life, and reveals the truth behind his recent health struggles in a remarkably candid autobiography.
As the voice of Moses in the 1998 classic, Val Kilmer brought a Bible story to life for millions of individuals. Voice work for many actors and actresses can too often go unseen, so it was wonderful for me to learn that he was in one of my favorite childhood movies of all time.
Your library card gives you access to The New York Times Magazine and this fantastic article by Taffy Brodesser-Akner originally published May 6, 2020 and
updated April 4, 2025 was a feature article.
Grab a cup of coffee and sink into a great conversation and exploration of Kilmer in Brodesser-Akner's interview with him.
The entire article can be read HERE.
