Batman Forever Reunion: Jim Carrey Honors Val Kilmer’s Extraordinary Life After His Tragic Passing

Jim Carrey is remembering his Batman Forever costar, Val Kilmer, following the actor’s death at the age of 65 on April 1, 2025. Kilmer, renowned for his portrayal of Bruce Wayne/Batman in the 1995 film Batman Forever, passed away due to pneumonia. Carrey, who played the villainous Riddler alongside Kilmer’s Batman, shared a heartfelt tribute to his late friend and colleague on April 2, expressing both admiration for Kilmer’s artistic legacy and deep respect for the way he faced life’s most difficult challenges.

In a statement, Carrey reflected on Kilmer’s legacy, saying, “I’m remembering Val Kilmer today with great admiration for him as a man and as a generational talent who left us an enviable legacy of indelible acting performances.” Carrey, 63, emphasized not only Kilmer’s artistic achievements but also the personal strength that defined him. “His greatest artistic achievements were rivaled only by the grace and courage with which he endured his life’s most challenging moments,” Carrey added. “Wishing his family so much love.”

Kilmer’s role as Batman in Batman Forever marked a significant moment in his career, as he succeeded Michael Keaton in the iconic role. Directed by Joel Schumacher, Batman Forever was the third installment in Warner Bros.’ live-action Batman series, following Batman (1989) and Batman Returns (1992). Kilmer, who admitted in the 2021 documentary Val that he accepted the role without reading the script or knowing who Schumacher was, brought his own unique energy to the character, alongside an ensemble cast that included Nicole Kidman, Chris O’Donnell, and Tommy Lee Jones. Carrey’s performance as the Riddler in the film is still remembered as one of his most iconic roles.

Kilmer’s passing has resonated deeply with those who worked with him, including his Batman Forever castmates. Actress Debi Mazar, who appeared in the film as Sugar, shared personal memories of Kilmer on Instagram on April 2. Reflecting on their first meeting in 1984, Mazar recalled, “I met Val in 1984, in a dilapidated van that had a door missing… We had just attended Vincent Gallo’s wedding to a girl named Denise(?) in NYC. The van took a bunch of us to the wedding reception in Jamaica, Queens. Super fun memory of that day…”

Mazar, who also worked with Kilmer on The Doors and Batman Forever, described him as “so talented & interesting” and expressed her condolences to his family. She also acknowledged the challenges Kilmer faced with his health, adding, “I know he struggled over the years with his health, and was a fighter. My condolences to his family & loved ones. May he R.I.P.”

Kilmer’s career spanned several decades, with notable roles in films such as Top Gun, The Doors, and Tombstone. His portrayal of Jim Morrison in The Doors and his role as Doc Holliday in Tombstone are just a few of the performances that solidified him as one of Hollywood’s most talented actors of his generation. Kilmer’s contributions to cinema will be remembered fondly, and his enduring legacy will continue to inspire future generations of actors.

As fans and colleagues continue to mourn his loss, Jim Carrey’s tribute serves as a powerful reminder of the grace and resilience Kilmer exhibited both on and off screen, leaving behind a legacy of unforgettable performances and an indomitable spirit.