Tom Skerritt, a prolific actor recognized for his commanding presence in films like "Alien" and "Top Gun," died on Wednesday at the age of 93. His family confirmed the passing, stating it was due to natural causes.
Skerritt's career spanned decades, beginning in the early 1960s. He first gained significant film acclaim in Robert Altman's 1970 comedy "MAS*H," where he portrayed surgeon Duke Forrest. Throughout the 1970s, he appeared in notable films such as "Harold and Maude," "The Turning Point," and "Cheech & Chong's Up in Smoke."
In Ridley Scott's 1979 science-fiction horror classic "Alien," Skerritt played the role of Captain Arthur Dallas, commander of the Nostromo. He starred alongside Sigourney Weaver, Yaphet Kotto, and John Hurt in the film that would become a benchmark for the genre.
The 1980s saw Skerritt take on a memorable role as Commander Mike "Viper" Metcalf in the 1986 hit "Top Gun." As the commanding officer of the elite fighter pilot program, he guided and challenged characters played by Tom Cruise and Val Kilmer.
Skerritt's television work was equally impactful, most notably earning him a Primetime Emmy Award for Outstanding Lead Actor in a Drama Series for his role as Sheriff Jimmy Brock in the 1990s series "Picket Fences." He also made appearances in shows such as "Cheers" and "The Good Wife."
Born in Detroit, Michigan, Skerritt was a veteran of the U.S. Air Force and had five children from three marriages. His family remembered him not only for his acting but also for his "humor, curiosity, wisdom, generosity and the love he brought into our lives."