Hollywood Veteran Tom Skerritt, Star of ‘Top Gun’ and ‘Alien’, Dies Aged 93
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American actor Tom Skerritt, best known for his roles in Top Gun, Alien and the television drama Picket Fences, has died aged 93. His family confirmed that he died of natural causes on Wednesday, paying tribute to his humour, wisdom, generosity and the love he brought to their lives.
In a statement, his family said Skerritt would be remembered not only for his celebrated acting career but also for his belief that storytelling could help people heal, discover purpose and bring about change.
From US Air Force to Hollywood
Born in Detroit, Michigan, in 1933, Skerritt served in the US Air Force before pursuing acting. His military background later complemented the several armed-forces roles he played on screen.
He made his film debut in 1962 alongside Robert Redford in War Hunt. The two actors reunited three decades later in the 1992 drama A River Runs Through It, which also starred Brad Pitt.
Skerritt's breakthrough came in 1970 when he played US Army surgeon Duke Forrest in the Korean War comedy MASH, alongside Donald Sutherland, Elliott Gould and Sally Kellerman.
Released during a period of unrest over the Vietnam War, the film received five Academy Award nominations and was adapted into a television series in 1972.
‘Alien’ and ‘Top Gun’ Made Him a Familiar Face
Skerritt appeared alongside Sigourney Weaver in Ridley Scott's 1979 science-fiction film Alien, which earned two Oscar nominations and went on to spawn three sequels and several crossover projects.
In a 2019 interview cited by Reuters, he recalled the spontaneous chemistry among the cast, saying their immediate rapport made a difference to the film.
He also praised the script for allowing Weaver's character, Ellen Ripley, to emerge as a hero.
Skerritt continued to work alongside prominent female actors throughout his career. He appeared with Shirley MacLaine in the 1977 film The Turning Point and played Sally Field's husband in the 1989 drama Steel Magnolias.
In 1986, he took on the role of Commander Mike “Viper” Metcalf in Top Gun, appearing alongside a young Tom Cruise. The film became one of the defining Hollywood releases of the decade.
His other film credits included Ted and A River Runs Through It.
Emmy Win for ‘Picket Fences’
Skerritt enjoyed considerable success on television, winning an Emmy Award in 1993 for his portrayal of Sheriff Jimmy Brock in David E Kelley's drama series Picket Fences.
The show's ensemble cast received Screen Actors Guild Award nominations in 1995 and 1996, while Skerritt was nominated for his performance as a male actor in a drama series in 1995.
Lauren Holly, who played his deputy in the series, remembered him as the cast's leader.
In a tribute, Holly said his example made their years working together a joy and recalled the laughter they shared. She also praised his commitment to his family, colleagues and the natural world, adding that he had a profound impact on her life.
Skerritt's television credits included guest appearances in The West Wing, Madam Secretary, Law & Order: SVU and Huff. He reunited with Field in the family drama Brothers & Sisters, playing family patriarch William Walker from 2007 to 2009.
He also appeared in six episodes of Cheers as Evan Drake, the boss who attracted Rebecca Howe's attention.
Legacy Beyond the Screen
Away from acting, Skerritt worked to support the next generation of storytellers. He co-founded TheFilmSchool in Seattle, an initiative designed to help aspiring filmmakers develop their craft.
He also co-founded the Red Badge Project, which helps military veterans work through post-traumatic stress disorder, anxiety and depression by writing about and sharing their experiences.
His interest in the environment inspired him to create the documentary series Reflections of the River, which explored America's rivers. He also supported river conservation efforts.
His family said his legacy extended well beyond the screen, reflecting his commitment to storytelling, community and the causes he believed in.
Skerritt is survived by his third wife, Julie, five children and several grandchildren.
