QUICK SUMMARY
Val Kilmer, the actor known for "Batman Forever" and "Top Gun," lived on a New Mexico ranch for nearly two decades, where he embraced the outdoors and even operated a bed and breakfast. Recently, he revealed that he has healed from cancer, a diagnosis he had previously denied. His time in New Mexico left a lasting impact on the state and its residents.
Val Kilmer, renowned for his performances in films such as "Batman Forever" and "Tombstone," lived on a sprawling 5,300-acre ranch along the Pecos River in New Mexico for nearly two decades. He engaged in activities like herding buffalo and shooting the movie "Blind Horizon" nearby, marking his deep connection to the region. Kilmer also briefly considered running for governor and later converted his ranch into a bed and breakfast, offering guests outdoor experiences. In a 2003 Rolling Stone interview, he controversially labeled his county as the "homicide capital of the Southwest" but later apologized for those remarks. Recently, he has been seen in downtown Santa Fe, where he shared that he has healed from cancer, a diagnosis he had previously denied. Kilmer's choice to reside in New Mexico during the peak of his career highlights his love for the area and its culture. His contributions and experiences in the state resonate with residents, ensuring his memory endures. The actor's life serves as a reminder of the unique ties between art and nature.