Kurt Russell Once Quietly Paid Tribute To Val Kilmer Without Taking Credit
When the 1993 Western classic Tombstone was released, Val Kilmer’s unforgettable performance as Doc Holliday was widely praised — many believe it’s one of the greatest portrayals in the genre. But few people knew just how much Kurt Russell fought behind the scenes to make the film great… and how much he supported Kilmer.
For years, it was rumored that Russell actually ghost-directed large parts of the movie, stepping in after conflicts with the original director. In a 2006 interview, Kilmer confirmed the rumor, saying:
“Kurt is solely responsible for Tombstone’s success… He saved the film.”
But here’s the remarkable part: despite all that, Russell never took credit. He wanted the film – and especially Kilmer’s performance — to shine on its own.
Later on, Russell said of Kilmer’s Doc Holliday:
“What Val did with that role is something very few actors can touch. He was brilliant.”
Over the years, even as Val Kilmer battled throat cancer, Russell never spoke publicly for attention — but those close to the project say he still speaks of Kilmer with “deep admiration and brotherly respect.”
Their bond, forged through grit, talent, and trust, gave us one of the greatest duos in Western film history.
