Hollywood has lost a true legend today. Tom Skerritt, the Emmy-winning actor best known for his unforgettable roles in Top Gun, Alien, and Picket Fences, has sadly passed away at the age of 93.
According to a heartbreaking statement released by his family, the veteran actor died of natural causes on Wednesday, October 21.
“Our family is deeply saddened to share that Tom Skerritt passed away,” the family shared in their emotional statement. “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.”
Tom leaves behind a massive and beautiful family, including his loving wife of 28 years, Julie Tokashiki, his five children, five grandchildren, and two great-grandchildren. The family expressed their deep heartbreak and asked for privacy as they grieve this monumental loss.
With a career spanning over six decades and more than 150 acting credits, Tom Skerritt was a staple in American cinema and television. He captured hearts as Commander Mike “Viper” Metcalf in the 1986 blockbuster Top Gun alongside Tom Cruise. He also delivered a star-making performance as Captain Dallas in the 1979 sci-fi classic Alien.
However, it was his role as Sheriff Jimmy Brock on the hit CBS series Picket Fences that earned him an Emmy Award in 1993 for Outstanding Lead Actor.
Dealing with the loss of a beloved star is always incredibly difficult for fans and the entertainment community. Just recently, the television world was left mourning when Days of Our Lives star Robert Kelker-Kelly tragically passed away at 62. Now, fans are once again coming together to pay their respects to another fallen icon.
Beyond his acting career, Tom was a proud U.S. Air Force veteran and co-founded the Red Badge Project to help veterans heal from PTSD through storytelling. His legacy will undoubtedly live on through his incredible work both on and off the screen.
Please leave your thoughts, prayers, and favorite memories of Tom Skerritt in the comments below during this difficult time.