Actor Val Kilmer addresses NM county commission over published comments, neighbors’ concerns

Kilmer attends NM hearing to set record straight

LAS VEGAS, N.M. — Actor Val Kilmer is appearing before commissioners in San Miguel County, N.M., saying he hopes something good comes from the hearing after he was quoted making disparaging comments about the community.

Commissioners invited Kilmer to appear Wednesday and explain the comments published years ago in Rolling Stone and Esquire magazines. Some residents also have complained that Kilmer chased away people fishing on the Pecos River at his ranch.

The actor, who starred in “Tombstone,” ”Top Gun” and “The Doors,” has maintained that his words were taken out of context and misunderstood. He says he loves the San Miguel County area, where he has lived for more than a dozen years.

Before the meeting, Kilmer told reporters he understands the concerns of residents when they hear something negative about their community.