Tom Skerritt Dies at 93 After Six Decades in Film and Television

Tom Skerritt, the veteran American actor whose career spanned more than six decades in film and television, died Wednesday at his home in Seattle at age 93. His family confirmed that he died of natural causes, according to statements reported by ABC News, CNN and The Seattle Times on October 22, 2026.

Skerritt earned widespread recognition for playing Captain Dallas in the science fiction horror film Alien, Commander Mike Metcalf in Top Gun and Sheriff Jimmy Brock in the television drama Picket Fences. His performance in the latter earned him a Primetime Emmy Award for Outstanding Lead Actor in a Drama Series in 1993.

His family described him as a generous and curious person whose interests extended beyond acting to storytelling, veterans' welfare and environmental conservation. The family also confirmed that information about a memorial service would be announced later.

In a statement reported by CNN and The Seattle Times, Skerritt's family reflected on the distinction between his public career and his private life.

"While the world knew Tom through his remarkable acting career, we knew him for his humor, curiosity, wisdom, generosity, and the love he brought into our lives. He cared deeply about imagination, creativity, storytelling, service, veterans, the natural world, and helping others find and share their own voices. We are incredibly grateful for the love and support being shown by his friends, colleagues, and fans. We ask for privacy as our family grieves." the family said.

Born into a career that began in the early 1960s, Skerritt initially appeared in Westerns and television productions before gaining broader attention in Robert Altman's 1970 film M*A*S*H, in which he played surgeon Duke Forrest. His television credits during that period included Bonanza and Gunsmoke.

He later appeared in the 1977 film The Turning Point, an Oscar-nominated drama starring Anne Bancroft and Shirley MacLaine. His portrayal of Captain Dallas in Ridley Scott's 1979 film Alien further established his versatility, placing him alongside Sigourney Weaver in a story about a spacecraft crew confronting a deadly extraterrestrial threat.

In 1986, Skerritt played instructor Mike Metcalf, known as Viper, in Top Gun, opposite Tom Cruise. The role showcased his ability to portray authoritative characters who combined professional discipline with a supportive side.

His other notable film credits included Steel Magnolias, in which he played the husband of Sally Field's character and the father of Julia Roberts' character, and A River Runs Through It, directed by Robert Redford and starring Brad Pitt. He also appeared in The Dead Zone, Poison Ivy and Contact.

Skerritt continued working into the 21st century, appearing in television series including Brothers & Sisters and Will & Grace, as well as films such as Ted and A Hologram for the King. His final film credit was the 2025 production Broke, according to CNN.

Beyond acting, Skerritt helped establish the Red Badge Project, an initiative intended to help veterans address post-traumatic stress disorder, anxiety and depression through writing and sharing personal experiences. His family also highlighted his work supporting Reflections of the River, a documentary series focused on American rivers and their protection.

In a 2020 reflection on his career, Skerritt discussed how watching Citizen Kane while studying at UCLA influenced his interest in acting. He explained that performing offered an opportunity to overcome his natural shyness and explore experiences beyond his own.

Skerritt is survived by his wife, Julie Tokashiki; children Andy, Erin, Matt, Collin and Emiko; five grandchildren; and two great-grandchildren, according to The Seattle Times.