Tom Skerritt dies at 93: cause of death and net worth of the Top Gun actor
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Tom Skerritt, the Emmy Award-winning American actor best known for his performances in Top Gun, Alien, and Picket Fences, has died at the age of 93. His death marks the end of a Hollywood career spanning more than six decades, during which he became one of the entertainment industry’s most recognizable character actors.
The actor died on Wednesday, October 21, 2026, according to a statement released by his family. His passing was confirmed on October 22, prompting tributes from fans who remembered his performances alongside some of Hollywood’s biggest stars, including Tom Cruise, Sigourney Weaver, and Sally Field.
What was Tom Skerritt’s cause of death?
Tom Skerritt died of natural causes at the age of 93, his family confirmed. No specific medical condition was identified as contributing to his death.
In a statement shared with the media, his relatives remembered the actor for his humor, curiosity, generosity, and lifelong commitment to storytelling and helping others.
Beyond his Hollywood achievements, Skerritt was actively involved in initiatives supporting military veterans and encouraging creative expression.
Born on August 25, 1933, in Detroit, Michigan, Skerritt served in the United States Air Force before pursuing an acting career that would eventually make him an internationally recognized performer.
What was Tom Skerritt’s net worth?
At the time of his death, Tom Skerritt’s estimated net worth was $12 million, according to Celebrity Net Worth.
However, this figure is an independent estimate rather than a verified financial disclosure or official valuation of his estate.
His wealth was primarily associated with his extensive acting career, which included appearances in more than 150 film and television productions.
In addition to acting, Skerritt explored directing, production, and business ventures connected to the entertainment industry.
His professional longevity allowed him to work across multiple generations of Hollywood filmmaking, establishing a career that extended from the early 1960s into the 2020s.
Tom Skerritt’s career: from Alien to Top Gun
Skerritt made his film debut in War Hunt in 1962 before gaining wider recognition through Robert Altman’s 1970 film MASH*.
In 1979, he portrayed Captain Arthur Dallas in Ridley Scott’s science-fiction horror classic Alien, alongside Sigourney Weaver.
One of his most recognizable performances came in 1986, when he played Commander Mike “Viper” Metcalf in Top Gun.
In the blockbuster starring Tom Cruise, Skerritt portrayed an experienced naval aviator and instructor who guided the young fighter pilots.
His filmography also included Steel Magnolias, The Dead Zone, A River Runs Through It, and Contact.
Emmy Award and television success
Although widely recognized for his film performances, Skerritt achieved one of his most significant professional milestones on television.
He starred as Sheriff Jimmy Brock in the CBS drama Picket Fences, which aired from 1992 to 1996.
The performance earned him the 1993 Primetime Emmy Award for Outstanding Lead Actor in a Drama Series, strengthening his reputation as a versatile performer.
Who survives Tom Skerritt?
Tom Skerritt is survived by his wife, Julie Tokashiki, five children, five grandchildren, and two great-grandchildren.
His family has requested privacy following his death.
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