Val Kilmer talked hard because of the effects of throat cancer: ‘I feel much better than I talk’
Legendary American actor Val Kilmer He died at the age of 65. The cause of death was pneumonia, his daughter Mercedes Kilmer confirmed. In 2015, the actor was diagnosed with a throat cancer that completely changed his life.
Kilmer underwent intensive treatment that included chemotherapy, radiation therapy and tracheotomy – surgery that creates an opening on the neck to facilitate breathing. These therapies, although successful in the fight against cancer (Kilmer has been without recurrence of the disease since 2020), left lasting consequences.
The most significant consequence was almost a complete loss of natural voice. The treatments damaged his vocal cords to such an extent that he used an electronic voice box to communicate or must cover the neck opening to produce sound.
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« I can’t talk without clogging this hole in my throat, » he honestly admitted. In addition, due to difficulty swallowing, Kilmer was fed using a probe. He admitted that the side effects of treatments were more challenging for him than the disease itself, emphasizing the internal conflict between his religion and the physical reality of the state. Despite everything, he stated, « I feel much better than I sound. »
Despite the physical challenges, Kilmer’s creative spirit remained unloved. During recovery, he found comfort and strength in artistic expression – painting, writing and music.
– When one thing is taken away, your other day is. With a little voice, my creative juices were boiling, ”he said. He considered his abstract work, often filled with vibrant colors, as a way of communicating and emotional healing.
The family provided him with great support. His children, Jack and Mercedes, described him as extremely resistant and full energy, pointing out that he remained « crazy productive » and retained a sense of humor even in the most difficult moments. Together they produced a touching documentary « Wave« (2021), who provides an intimate insight into his life and struggle with the disease, and Jack borrowed a voice for the narration of her father’s words. Mercedes starred with her father in » Paydirt « . He was supported by longtime friend, singer Cher, who offered him accommodation in her home during treatment.
Kilmer did not retreat from the world of acting. His return in the role of Thomas « Iceman » of the Cassani in the movie « Top Gun: Maverick« (2022) was an extremely emotional moment, both for him and the audience. Although his character in the film also has health problems and communicates with typing, directors managed to include a scene with his real, digitally treated voice.
Kilmer collaborated with a technology company in 2021. Sonantic On the creation of AI model of his voice, using archives.
« The opportunity to tell my story in a voice that sounds authentic and known is an incredibly special gift, » Kilmer said.
