Val Kilmer’s frail appearance has fueled rumors that the actor is suffering with throat cancer. On Sunday, Kilmer was photographed walking into church. As he appeared to be exceptionally thin, and his neck was covered with several scarves, fans are concerned about his overall health.
In a January 31 Facebook post, Kilmer admittedly spent time in the University of California, Los Angeles, intensive care unit for “a complication.” However, he vehemently denied rumors that he “had a tumor, or a tumor operation, or any operation.”
The infamous actor also thanked his fans for their concern and his friends for “making sure there’s minimum gossip and silly talk” about his health.
Although he denies treatment for a tumor, Val Kilmer’s frail appearance suggests he is seriously ill.
In the months following his rumored surgery, Kilmer made several public appearances. However, he has not been seen without one or more scarves covering his neck.
This was taken last Friday when I was released from the hospital and on my way home. FREEDOM!!!! pic.twitter.com/VH5j4kOCvR
— Val Kilmer (@valkilmer) February 9, 2015
In a March 10 Facebook post, the actor thanked his family and friends once again for their continued prayers and support. Although he does not specifically mention his illness, Kilmer credits his spirituality with giving him strength — and contends “prayer does work.”
A native of Los Angeles, California, Val Kilmer attended the Hollywood Professional School and Julliard. Although he appeared in several successful films as a supporting actor, Kilmer got his big break in 1991, with his portrayal of Jim Morrison in The Doors .
Throughout the 1990s, Kilmer starred in numerous hit films, including Tombstone , Thunderheart , Batman Forever , and The Ghost and the Darkness .
As reported by IMDB , Kilmer has received a Cameraimage award, a Cinequest San Jose Film Festival award, a Prism award, and a Satellite award.
In recent years, Val Kilmer has focused on his artwork, which includes paintings, collages, and sculptures. The works, many of which are religiously themed, sell for an average of $3,000.
— Val Kilmer (@valkilmer) March 10, 2015
The actor uses his Facebook and Twitter accounts to debut new artwork and discuss his spirituality. However, he has been hesitant to discuss his health concerns.
In January, Kilmer was reportedly rushed to the hospital as he “was reportedly coughing up blood.” As reported by Food World News , the reports led to speculation that the actor was suffering with throat cancer .
Val Kilmer’s frail appearance, and rumored health concerns, are back in the spotlight after a series of new photos were published by several media outlets.
In the photos, the actor’s throat is covered with two different scarves. He is also carrying a grey bag, which is being “described as a medical type bag.”
Val Kilmer Throat Cancer Photos Actor Looks Frail Outside … : http://t.co/8IUxWSjxnn .. pic.twitter.com/5O2wV54IjY
— BINGBING Celeb (@BINGBINGCELEB) June 1, 2015
It is unclear whether Val Kilmer’s frail appearance is cause for concern, or he is simply experiencing signs of natural aging. As he has been vague in his response to the rumors, fans are terribly concerned about his health.
[Image via Kevin Winter / Getty Images ]