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Actor Tom Skerritt, known for Alien, Top Gun, and Picket Fences, died at 93, his family said.
Tom Skerritt, an actor whose work spanned film, television, and theater, died at age 93 of natural causes, according to a public statement from his family. He was born in Detroit on August 25, 1933.
Skerritt made his film debut in War Hunt, alongside Robert Redford and Sydney Pollack. He made his Broadway debut in an adaptation of A Time to Kill. His film work included the role of the captain of the Nostromo in Alien and flight instructor Viper in Top Gun. He also won the National Board of Review award for best supporting actor for The Turning Point.
Other film roles included Julia Roberts' father in Steel Magnolias, a scheming presidential adviser in Contact, and Rev. John Maclean in A River Runs Through It, directed by Robert Redford.
On television, Skerritt starred as a sheriff in the CBS series Picket Fences from 1992 to 1996, earning an Emmy for outstanding lead actor in a drama series.
Beyond performing, Skerritt narrated Our Town at Seattle's Intiman Theatre, helped establish TheFilmSchool in Seattle, and co-founded the Red Badge Project, which uses writing to help veterans. He is survived by his wife, Julie Tokashiki, and five children.
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Across Film, Television, and Stage Over a Long Career
Skerritt's career moved between film, television, and theater. He began with a film debut in War Hunt and a Broadway debut in an adaptation of A Time to Kill, then appeared in science fiction and action films such as Alien and Top Gun. His television work included the sheriff role in Picket Fences, which earned him an Emmy. Later film roles in Contact and A River Runs Through It showed a range that extended beyond genre hits.
Beyond the Screen, Work in Education and Veterans' Support
Skerritt's influence extended beyond performance. His narration of Our Town at Seattle's Intiman Theatre and his role in helping establish TheFilmSchool connected him to arts and education in Seattle. He also co-founded the Red Badge Project, which uses writing to help veterans. Some observers may view this work as a lasting contribution alongside his acting career. He is survived by his wife, Julie Tokashiki, and five children.