Tom Skerritt, known for his roles in Alien and Top Gun, has died aged 93. His family said he died on Wednesday from natural causes. In their statement, they remembered his humour, generosity and love, as well as his interest in nature and helping others share their stories. He is survived by his wife, Julie Tokashiki, and five children.
Skerritt made his film debut in War Hunt in 1962 and later played Duke Forrest in Robert Altman's M*A*S*H. In Ridley Scott's 1979 film Alien, he played Dallas, the captain of a spaceship. His character initially appeared to be a traditional hero, making his death a surprise for early audiences. The story then centred on Ellen Ripley, played by Sigourney Weaver. Skerritt went on to play a flight instructor in Top Gun and a father who was a church minister in A River Runs Through It.
His television career included Picket Fences, in which he played a tough but fair sheriff, a local police leader. The role brought him an Emmy award for outstanding lead actor in a drama series in 1993. Julia Roberts, who played his daughter in Steel Magnolias, shared a photograph of them together after his death and paid tribute to his gentle character.
