Actor Tom Skerritt dies at 93

American actor Tom Skerritt has died at the age of 93 due to natural causes. His death was announced by his family and manager, noting that he passed away on Wednesday, October 21, 2026.

Skerritt enjoyed a prolific career spanning over six decades with more than 100 screen credits. He was widely recognized for his roles in cinematic classics, including playing Captain Dallas in ‘Alien’ (1979), flight instructor ‘Viper’ Metcalf in ‘Top Gun’ (1986), and surgeon Duke Forrest in ‘M*A*S*H’ (1970). His notable filmography also includes ‘Steel Magnolias’, ‘A River Runs Through It’, and ‘The Turning Point’.

On television, Skerritt became a household name for his portrayal of Sheriff Jimmy Brock in the CBS drama ‘Picket Fences’, a role for which he won a Primetime Emmy Award.

Before his acting career, Skerritt served in the United States Air Force. He was also known for his philanthropic efforts, including co-founding The Film School in Seattle and creating The Red Badge Project to support military veterans dealing with PTSD and depression.