US actor Tom Skerritt, star of Top Gun, Steel Magnolias and Alien, dies aged 93

October 22, 2026

Tom Skerritt, the acclaimed American actor known for his roles in classic films like Alien, Top Gun, and Steel Magnolias, has passed away at age 93 from natural causes. Over his six-decade career, the Detroit-born performer appeared in numerous iconic films including MASH and A River Runs Through It, and won an Emmy Award for his television role in Picket Fences. Beyond acting, Skerritt was deeply committed to education and healing through storytelling, co-founding TheFilmSchool in Seattle and the Red Badge Project to help veterans process trauma.

Who is affected

Tom Skerritt's family, including his third wife Julie, five children, and several grandchildren
Colleagues and co-stars including Lauren Holly, who paid tribute to him
Students and filmmakers at TheFilmSchool in Seattle that he co-founded
Veterans involved with the Red Badge Project
The film and television industry that he contributed to over six decades

What action is being taken

No explicit next steps stated in the article

Why it matters

Tom Skerritt's death marks the loss of a significant figure in American cinema who appeared in some of the most influential films of the late 20th century. His career spanned multiple generations and genres, and he was known for championing strong female characters in film. Beyond entertainment, his legacy includes meaningful contributions to film education, veteran mental health support through storytelling, and environmental conservation efforts, demonstrating how artists can create positive social impact beyond their primary craft.

What's next

No explicit next steps stated in the article

Read full article from source: BBC