Tom Skerritt, 'Alien' Star, Dies at 93

Tom Skerritt, an acclaimed actor celebrated for his roles in "Alien" and "Picket Fences," died on October 21, 2026, at the age of 93. His family announced his passing, stating he died of natural causes and remembering his humor, wisdom, and generosity.

Born in Detroit on August 25, 1933, Skerritt served in the U.S. Air Force before pursuing acting. He made his film debut in 1962 and later gained recognition for his breakthrough role in Robert Altman's "M*A*S*H" (1970).

His career highlights include portraying Captain Dallas in Ridley Scott's "Alien" (1979) and Commander Mike "Viper" Metcalf in "Top Gun" (1986). Skerritt also charmed audiences in "Steel Magnolias" (1989).

Skerritt earned an Emmy Award in 1993 for his role as Sheriff Jimmy Brock on the CBS series "Picket Fences." He also received Golden Globe and Screen Actors Guild Award nominations for his television work.

In 2020, Skerritt and his wife, Julie Tokashiki, founded the film company Triple Squirrels. He also co-founded the Red Badge Project in 2012 to assist veterans with PTSD through storytelling.

Skerritt is survived by his wife, five children, five grandchildren, and two great-grandchildren.