American actor Tom Skerritt, known for his performances in Alien, Top Gun and the television drama Picket Fences, has died at the age of 93.
Skerritt died on Wednesday of natural causes, his family confirmed.
In a statement, his family remembered him not only for his successful acting career but also for his personality and the impact he had on those around him.
“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,” the statement said.
A career spanning six decades
Skerritt built a career lasting more than 60 years, working across film and television and appearing in a wide range of productions.
His notable screen credits included the science-fiction classic Alien, the military drama Top Gun and the television series Picket Fences. He also appeared in MASH, A River Runs Through It and Ted.
Through his varied roles, Skerritt established himself as a familiar presence on screen, earning recognition across different genres and generations of viewers.
Supporting the next generation of filmmakers
Beyond acting, Skerritt helped nurture emerging creative talent. He co-founded TheFilmSchool in Seattle, an organisation established to support aspiring filmmakers and storytellers.
His family said his legacy extended beyond entertainment, highlighting his belief in the power of storytelling to make a meaningful difference.
They said he would be remembered “for his belief that stories can help people heal, find purpose, and create change”.
Skerritt leaves behind a body of work spanning generations, as well as a legacy of encouraging others to tell stories that matter.
