Chris O’Donnell Remembers ‘Intense’ and ‘Passionate’ “Batman” Costar Val Kilmer, and Explains Why He Was ‘Tough to Understand’

Chris O’Donnell Reflects on Working with “Batman” Co-star Val Kilmer

In a recent interview published by The New York Post, Chris O’Donnell shared his thoughts on his late Batman Forever co-star, Val Kilmer, who passed away in April at the age of 65. O’Donnell, who played Robin alongside Kilmer’s Batman in the 1995 film, described Kilmer as an intense and remarkable actor. He noted that Kilmer was a serious individual who could sometimes be challenging to understand due to the facade he maintained. Despite this, O’Donnell praised Kilmer for his passion for filmmaking and his dedication to his craft, stating that he made those around him better with his talent.

The dynamic between O’Donnell and Kilmer on the set of Batman Forever was marked by Kilmer’s intensity and focus on his work. O’Donnell highlighted Kilmer’s commitment to his role and the art of performance, emphasising that Kilmer was a special actor who left a lasting impact on those he worked with. While Kilmer only portrayed Batman in Batman Forever, O’Donnell also appeared in the subsequent Batman & Robin in 1997, featuring George Clooney as Batman.

In a retrospective look back in 2020, Kilmer revealed why he chose not to reprise his role as Batman, citing an incident where billionaire investor Warren Buffett’s grandchildren visited the set solely to see Batman. Kilmer expressed his frustration at being reduced to just the character of Batman, rather than being recognised for his craft and artistry as an actor. He also spoke about the physical challenges of playing the superhero, particularly the discomfort of the heavy costume and mask.

The Batman franchise underwent changes post-Batman Forever, with George Clooney taking on the mantle of Batman in Batman & Robin. Directed by Joel Schumacher, the film also featured Alicia Silverstone as Batgirl, Uma Thurman as Poison Ivy, and Arnold Schwarzenegger as Mr. Freeze. Batman Forever marked the third instalment in Warner Bros.’ live-action Batman series, following Tim Burton’s Batman and Batman Returns. The film was a commercial success, grossing over $300 million worldwide.

As Batman Forever celebrated its 30th anniversary this summer, O’Donnell shared a nostalgic photo from the set on Instagram, reminiscing about the journey of the film. Despite the passage of time, O’Donnell continues to have fond memories of his experience working on the Batman series, portraying the character of Robin/Dick Grayson. While the subsequent Batman films did not include a portrayal of Robin, O’Donnell’s portrayal remains a significant part of the Batman legacy.

Reflecting on his involvement in Batman Forever and Batman & Robin, O’Donnell expressed gratitude for the opportunity to be part of the beloved franchise. He acknowledged the fun and enjoyment he experienced during the filming process, but indicated that he harboured no desire to return to his superhero role. The evolving narrative of Batman on screen, portrayed by actors such as Christian Bale, Ben Affleck, and Robert Pattinson in the franchise’s later iterations, has seen different interpretations of the iconic character.

In conclusion, Chris O’Donnell’s reflections on his collaboration with Val Kilmer in Batman Forever shed light on the behind-the-scenes dynamics of the film and the enduring impact of Kilmer’s portrayal of Batman. Their on-screen partnership marked a significant chapter in the Batman franchise, contributing to the rich tapestry of interpretations of the iconic superhero character. Kilmer’s dedication to his craft and his intense approach to acting left a lasting impression on O’Donnell and the audience alike, showcasing the artistry and complexity involved in bringing superheroes to life on screen.