Beloved ‘Top Gun’ and ‘MAS*H’ Star has Died

Hollywood is mourning the loss of one of its most recognizable veteran actors, Tom Skerritt, whose unforgettable performances in Top Gun, MASH*, and Alien made him a familiar face to generations of moviegoers.

The Emmy-winning actor died Wednesday, October 21, at age 93, his family confirmed. His death from natural causes has prompted emotional tributes from former co-stars, including Julia Roberts, who remembered the beloved actor with a touching message.

“Our family is deeply saddened to share that Tom Skerritt passed away on October 21, 2026, from natural causes,” his family said in a statement. “We are heartbroken by his loss.”

For more than six decades, Skerritt brought warmth, authority, and a memorable screen presence to some of Hollywood’s biggest productions. But those who worked alongside him say his kindness and humor left an even greater impression.

Roberts, who played Skerritt’s daughter Shelby in the beloved 1989 film Steel Magnolias, shared a nostalgic photograph of the two laughing together on Instagram.

“A shining light of a gentle man. RIP,” the Oscar-winning actress wrote, adding a broken-heart emoji.

Actress Lauren Holly, who appeared alongside Skerritt in the hit CBS drama Picket Fences, also shared an emotional tribute, recalling the close relationships he built with his fellow cast members.

“He was our leader,” Holly wrote, explaining that his example made their years working together especially meaningful. She remembered his deep love for his family, his concern for the environment, and the countless moments of laughter they shared.

Kathy Baker, who portrayed Skerritt’s television wife on Picket Fences, described him as a dear friend and exceptionally generous colleague. She credited him with teaching her valuable lessons during their four seasons together.

Fellow cast member Justin Shenkarow, who played Skerritt’s television son, also honored the actor, expressing gratitude for the opportunity to work with someone he considered a legend.

Born in Detroit in 1933, Skerritt served four years in the U.S. Air Force before pursuing acting. His Hollywood career began with the 1962 film War Hunt, but his major breakthrough arrived in Robert Altman’s 1970 war comedy MASH*, where he portrayed Captain Augustus “Duke” Forrest.

The movie’s success helped establish Skerritt in Hollywood, opening the door to roles that would make him a household name.

In 1979, he played Captain Dallas in Ridley Scott’s science-fiction classic Alien. Seven years later, he appeared opposite Tom Cruise as Commander Mike “Viper” Metcalf in the blockbuster Top Gun, becoming one of the film’s most memorable authority figures.

His impressive career also included A River Runs Through It, Steel Magnolias, and the popular television comedy Cheers.

Skerritt received one of his greatest professional honors in 1993 when he won the Emmy Award for Outstanding Lead Actor in a Drama Series for his portrayal of Sheriff Jimmy Brock in Picket Fences.

Away from the cameras, Skerritt remained devoted to causes close to his heart. A military veteran himself, he helped establish the Red Badge Project, an organization that uses storytelling to support veterans dealing with the emotional effects of military service.

His family said the man they knew privately was defined by his humor, curiosity, generosity, and dedication to helping others.

Skerritt is survived by his wife, Julie Tokashiki, whom he married in 1998, along with five children, five grandchildren, and two great-grandchildren.

The family has requested privacy as they grieve and said information about a memorial will be shared at a later date.

For audiences who grew up watching him command a fighter-pilot classroom, navigate a spaceship, or keep order in a quirky Wisconsin town, Skerritt leaves behind an extraordinary collection of performances that will continue entertaining viewers for generations.