Emmy-winning American actor Tom Skerritt, known for his performances in Top Gun, Alien and Picket Fences, died on Wednesday, October 21, 2026, at age 93.
His family confirmed that he died of natural causes. In a statement shared with People, relatives remembered his humor, curiosity, generosity and devotion to storytelling, veterans and family.
Tom Skerritt cause of death and family statement
Skerritt's family announced his death on October 22, describing him as a devoted husband, father, grandfather and great-grandfather.
The actor is survived by his wife, Julie Tokashiki; five children, Andy, Erin, Matt, Colin and Emiko; five grandchildren; and two great-grandchildren.
The family requested privacy while grieving and said memorial arrangements would be announced later.
Tom Skerritt movies: From MAS*H to Top Gun and Alien
Born on August 25, 1933, in Detroit, Michigan, Skerritt served in the U.S. Air Force before studying at UCLA.
He made his film debut in War Hunt (1962) and gained recognition through Robert Altman's MASH* (1970).
His breakthrough performances included Captain Dallas in Ridley Scott's science-fiction classic Alien (1979) and Commander Mike "Viper" Metcalf alongside Tom Cruise in Top Gun (1986).
He also appeared in The Turning Point, Steel Magnolias and A River Runs Through It.
Picket Fences Emmy Award and television career
Tom Skerritt: Career Achievements
Celebrating more than six decades in Hollywood
Major Awards & Career Milestones
- Primetime Emmy Award (1993): Won Outstanding Lead Actor in a Drama Series for CBS's Picket Fences.
- Hollywood breakthrough: Gained major recognition in Robert Altman's M*A*S*H (1970).
- Iconic film performances: Played Captain Dallas in Alien (1979) and Commander Mike "Viper" Metcalf in Top Gun (1986).
- Acclaimed supporting roles: Appeared in The Turning Point (1977), Steel Magnolias (1989), and A River Runs Through It (1992).
- Television recognition: Earned Golden Globe and Screen Actors Guild Award nominations for Picket Fences.
- Veterans' advocacy: Co-founded the Red Badge Project in 2012, supporting military veterans through storytelling and creative writing.
Skerritt won the 1993 Primetime Emmy Award for Outstanding Lead Actor in a Drama Series for portraying Sheriff Jimmy Brock in CBS's Picket Fences.
The performance also earned him Golden Globe and Screen Actors Guild Award nominations.
Across more than six decades, he accumulated over 150 film and television credits, becoming a recognizable presence in American entertainment.
Military service, veterans' advocacy and personal legacy
Beyond acting, Skerritt co-founded the Red Badge Project in 2012, helping military veterans address trauma through creative writing and storytelling.
In 2020, he and Tokashiki established Triple Squirrels, a production company focused on independent storytelling.
Skerritt's death marks the loss of a versatile performer whose career connected generations of film and television audiences. His family has not yet announced memorial details, while his work in entertainment and veterans' advocacy remains part of his legacy.
