Val Kilmer, who sadly passed away on April 2, 2025, at the age of 65, will forever be remembered in cinema history for several iconic roles. However, millions of viewers first knew him as Batman.
The role came to Kilmer in the 1995 film Batman Forever, directed by Joel Schumacher and produced by Tim Burton. In this instalment of the superhero franchise, Kilmer replaced Michael Keaton, the previous actor to don the cape. As it turned out, Kilmer deeply regretted taking on the role.
In archival interviews, the actor recalled a moment on set when billionaire Warren Buffett visited with his grandchildren. The producers had arranged for Kilmer to meet the children, who were eager to meet the real Batman.
However, the kids showed little interest in Kilmer himself, instead choosing to wear the Dark Knight’s mask and ask for a ride in the Batmobile. That moment made Kilmer realise that it didn’t matter who played Batman — the character was merely a symbol, nothing to do with the actor inside the suit.
"There is no Batman, it doesn't matter," Kilmer famously reflected, sounding disillusioned.
Batman Forever received a mixed reception. The film grossed over $300 million, a respectable sum considering its much smaller budget, but critics were harsh. They dismissed the film’s colourful, over-the-top tone as a parody of the superhero genre. As a result, Kilmer’s portrayal was seen as more comedic than serious, with reviewers scrutinising his exaggerated expressions and imposing figure in the suit. Nevertheless, the film undoubtedly boosted Kilmer’s fame.
However, Kilmer refused to return for the sequel, citing scheduling conflicts. After that, he steered clear of the superhero genre for the rest of his career, never again revisiting such a role.
